Systems, devices, and methods for customized dental care

ABSTRACT

The various embodiments described herein include methods, devices, and systems for customizing dental care. In one aspect, a dental care device is customized for a particular user, including: (1) a support plate having: (a) a first portion configured to be inserted into a mouth; and (b) an attachment mechanism configured to attach the dental care device to a drive assembly; and (2) an elastomer (elastic polymer) portion enclosing the first portion of the plate, the elastomer portion including a plurality of cleaning tips and shaped in accordance with dental details of the particular user.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.14/939,909, filed Nov. 12, 2015, entitled “Methods and Devices forPersonalized Dental Care,” which claims priority to U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 62/078,134, filed Nov. 11, 2014, entitled “Methods andDevices for Personalized Dental Cleaning,” each of which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety. This application also claimspriority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/486,698, filed Apr. 18,2017, entitled “Device for Cleaning Teeth,” 62/466,014, filed Mar. 2,2017, entitled “Device for Dispensing a Teeth Cleaning Agent such asToothpaste;” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/466,010, filed Mar.2, 2017, entitled “Device for Cleaning Teeth;” and each of which ishereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

This application is related to U.S. Application No. 15/910,950, filedMar. 2, 2018, entitled “Systems, Devices, and Methods for ProvidingCustomized Oral Care Agents,” which is hereby incorporated by referencein its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to dental care, including but notlimited to, devices and systems for customized dental care.

BACKGROUND

Toothbrushes are typically used for conventional teeth cleaning. Suchtoothbrushes generally have clustered bristles on a brush head that arebrought into contact with a user's teeth and gums and moved about theuser's mouth by the user for sequential cleaning of different areas ofthe user's teeth. The effectiveness of using a toothbrush to clean teethis highly dependent on the technique and duration of the brushing, whichmany users find difficult to master or apply consistently.

Moreover, most toothbrushes have bristles arranged on a toothbrush headthat are arranged engagement with the user's teeth at an optimal angle.The Bass Technique, for example, describes an optimal brushing techniquein which the toothbrush head is vibrated while in contact with the toothat an angle of about 45°. In this approach, however, manual to and fromovement from the user may lead to gum and enamel attrition, and istherefore discouraged. It is difficult for many users, particularly forchildren and the elderly, to brush all teeth surfaces using the optimaltechnique.

As mentioned above, conventional toothbrushes are designed to clean oneside of one or more adjacent teeth at any given time. For example, thebrush head of a manual toothbrush or a powered toothbrush has a width onthe order of the width of a single adult tooth. Therefore, it oftentakes a person using such a device many minutes to clean all of his/herteeth adequately. For example, the American Dental Associationrecommends brushing one's teeth for two to three minutes (e.g., thirtyseconds per quadrant) using a manual toothbrush. Some toothbrushes eveninclude a timer that generates an alert (e.g., a vibration pattern) toinform a user that it is time for him/her to move from brushing onequadrant of his/her mouth to brushing another quadrant.

Unfortunately, many people brush their teeth for significantly less thanthe recommended length of time. For example, without a timer, a useroften overestimates the length of time that the user has been brushinghis/her teeth. Or a user may be in a rush. And even if the user uses atimer (e.g., a toothbrush with a quadrant timer), the user still may notbrush each tooth surface within a quadrant with uniformity relative tothe other tooth surfaces within the quadrant.

Furthermore, people may underbrush or overbrush, and thus abrade theirgums. For example, people may underbrush by not following therecommended brushing process or time spent per tooth, and people mayoverbrush by vigorously applying pressure or abrasive action to theirgums.

Furthermore, it can be difficult for a user to clean certain regions ofhis/her teeth using a conventional toothbrush. For example, it can bedifficult for a user to properly engage the brush head of a conventionalmanual or electric toothbrush with the backs of the molars on the sameside as the hand in which the user is holding the toothbrush. Moreover,a user with a sensitive mouth/throat may avoid brushing the backs ofhis/her molars to avoid activating his/her gag reflex. Consequently,even people who brush their teeth regularly may not clean their teethproperly.

In addition, many users who clean their teeth use a manual or electrictoothbrush with an oral care agent, such as toothpaste, applied to abrush head of the toothbrush. However, a need has arisen for an oralcare agent (e.g., toothpaste) dispenser that is convenient to operateand that dispenses an oral care agent that is customized to eachindividual user.

Toothpaste is typically packaged within a flexible capped tube, and auser typically applies the toothpaste to a brush head of a toothbrush byuncapping the tube, squeezing the tube to dispense the toothpaste, andthen recapping the tube. Unfortunately, dispensing toothpaste from atube can be inconvenient, or otherwise problematic. For example, if auser does not tightly recap the tube, then the toothpaste can be exposedto agents such as pollutants and bacteria that can degrade one or moreingredients of the toothpaste. Furthermore, because it can be difficultto impossible for a user to squeeze all of the toothpaste from a tube,at least a portion of the toothpaste in the tube is often wasted;considering that millions of tubes of toothpaste are sold worldwide eachyear, the aggregate amount of toothpaste wasted in this manner can besignificant.

Moreover, it can be difficult for a user to precisely control the amountof toothpaste the user squeezes onto a brush head of a toothbrush, e.g.,if the user dispenses too little toothpaste, then the user may be unableto clean all of his/her teeth adequately no matter how “hard” or howlong the user brushes; and if the user dispenses too much toothpaste,then the user may cause an excessive level of abrasion to his/her toothenamel. In addition, it can become more difficult to squeeze toothpastefrom the tube as the tube empties. Furthermore, because recapping atoothpaste tube typically requires two hands, a toothbrush (withtoothpaste on the brush head) that a user places on a counter while theuser recaps the tube can fall over and create a mess.

Another problem with using an off-the-shelf toothpaste, regardless ofits packaging, is that the toothpaste typically is not customized orpersonalized to the preferences and clinical needs of a particular user(e.g., fluoride toothpaste with a prescribed amount of fluoride). Forexample, if a user prefers a flavor of one toothpaste brand, and thewhitening ability of another toothpaste brand, his/her choices arelimited to choosing one of the brands, or attempting to combine thetoothpastes onto the brush head of his/her toothbrush, which may notresult in the preferred flavor or characteristics.

Therefore, a need has arisen for an oral care agent dispenser that isconfigured to address the above-described drawbacks. For example, a needhas arisen for an oral care agent dispenser that is configured todispense a precise amount of customized oral care agent in a“hands-free” manner.

In addition, information about the user's brushing history and theirdentition is not analyzed to predict oral care possibilities, such asproblems with, and solutions for, the user's gum health and smiledesign.

SUMMARY

In light of these drawbacks, there is a need for a dental care systemthat accurately and precisely cleans and maintains a user's teeth andgums (i.e., dental health), without causing discomfort to the user, andwithout requiring complex or intricate dental cleaning regimes. Suchsystems optionally complement or replace conventional systems, devices,and methods for maintaining a user's dental health.

Accordingly, some embodiments described herein include a dental cleaningdevice with a customized shape with customized cleaning tips. Forexample, the length, shape, stiffness, and material of the cleaning tips(also sometimes called cleaning protuberances herein) is customized tothe particular user's dentition (e.g., jaw, mouth, and teeth geometry).In accordance with some embodiments, the vibration cleaning pattern(also sometimes called a drive profile herein) is also customized foreach user to produce superior cleaning of each tooth and tooth surface,hence superior whole-mouth cleaning. In some embodiments, the dentalcare device is customized for each user's jaw and teeth geometry. Insome embodiments, the cleaning tips have customized shape and/orstiffness based in part on a vibration pattern for each user.

In some embodiments, the dental care device is configured to operate ata customizable range of vibration frequencies to ensure proper cleaningusing multiple motors to create different kinds of motion, which, whenput together in a sequence, ensures proper whole-mouth cleaning. In someembodiments, the vibration frequencies include one or more frequenciesin the sonic range and/or one or more frequencies in the ultrasonicrange.

In some embodiments, the dental care device is configured to gatherpersonalized data to guide a personalized treatment plan. In someembodiments, the personalized treatment plan includes a plurality ofdifferent frequencies selected based on the user's dental information.In some embodiments, the dental care device is configured to utilize apersonalized toothpaste selected in accordance with the user's dentalinformation. In some embodiments, the dental care device is configuredto send feedback to the user's dental health provider (e.g., to confirmthat the user is complying with a prescribed treatment regime, or foruse in future diagnoses, prescriptions, and/or procedures). In someembodiments, the information about the user's dentition along with usageand feedback information from the dental care device is automaticallymined via AI (Artificial Intelligence) and ML (Machine Learning) toidentify and/or predict dental issues and propose corresponding dentalprocedures. For example, identifying issues such as gum recession andpropose procedures so as to improve in smile and/or overall smile andfacial features.

Some embodiments include a dental cleaning device customized for aparticular user. In some embodiments, the dental care device includes:(1) a support plate having: (a) a first portion configured to beinserted into a mouth; and (b) an attachment mechanism configured toattach the dental care device to a drive assembly; and (2) an elastomer(elastic polymer) portion enclosing the first portion of the plate, theelastomer portion including a plurality of cleaning tips and shaped inaccordance with dental details of the particular user. For example, theelastomer portion is configured to match the teeth and jaw geometry ofthe particular user. In some embodiments, the elastomer portion iscustomized to the particular user based on the dental information of theparticular user. In some embodiments, the elastomer is composed ofbiocompatible silicone. In some embodiments the elastomer portion isintegrally formed. In some embodiments, there are sensors attached tothe mouthpiece to detect various dental physiological parameters, suchas breath analysis, bacteria detection, and the like.

Accordingly, some embodiments include a customized oral care agentdispenser in accordance with a user's dental information. In someembodiments, the customized oral care agent is based on one or more of:the user's age, periodontal condition, enamel health, sensitivity,health condition, and the like. In some embodiments, the user receivesthe paste via a subscription model. In some embodiments, the oral careagent is prescribed by a dentist. In some embodiments, the customizedoral care agent is dispensed via an oral care agent dispenser device. Insome embodiments, ingredients for the customized oral care agent areindividually inserted within the dispenser device. In some embodiments,ingredients are contained within replaceable capsules. In someembodiments, the dispenser device is hands-free (e.g., uses a sensor toautomatically dispense the oral care agent with a toothbrush is inposition).

In some embodiments, the dispenser is configured to dispense the rightquantity of oral care agent formulated according to the user's dentalinformation, preventing an over- or under-supply of oral care agent(e.g., dentifrice) required to clean the user's teeth and gums.

In some embodiments, one or more characteristics of the customized oralcare agent is customized to a particular user, such as flavor, color,fluoride content, tartar control ingredients, whitening agents,sensitivity reduction ingredients, stain removal ingredients, andmouthwash ingredients.

Some embodiments include an oral care agent dispenser device having: (1)multiple chambers each configured to receive a cartridge containing adifferent oral care ingredient of a plurality of oral care ingredients;(2) memory configured to store an oral care formulation that includesone or more of the plurality of oral care ingredients; and (3) adispenser positioned above a dispensing region, the dispenser configuredto dispense one or more of the plurality of oral care ingredients inaccordance with the oral care formulation information. In someembodiments, the dispenser device dispenses prescription material bycommunicating with a HIPPA-compliant software module which authorizesthe dispensing based on identification of the user (e.g., via a uniqueID from the dental care device).

Thus, devices and systems are provided with methods for customizing andimproving dental health, thereby increasing the effectiveness,efficiency, and user satisfaction of such devices and systems.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the various described embodiments,reference should be made to the Detailed Description below, inconjunction with the following drawings in which like reference numeralsrefer to corresponding parts throughout the figures.

FIG. 1A is a schematic view illustrating a representative dental caredevice in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 1B is a schematic three-dimensional view illustrating arepresentative dental care device in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a schematic three-dimensional view illustrating arepresentative dental cleaning kit in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a schematic view illustrating part of the dental cleaning kitof FIG. 2 in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a partial three-dimensional view illustrating a representativecustomized dental care device in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a schematic three-dimensional view illustrating use of adental care device by a user for dental cleaning in accordance with someembodiments.

FIG. 6 is a schematic three-dimensional view illustrating amonolithically formed bristled sheet blank for use in forming a cleanertray in accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS. 7A-7B are schematic three-dimensional views illustrating arepresentative dental care device according to some embodiments. FIG. 7Ashows the dental care device in an operational mode, while FIG. 7B showsthe dental care device in a stowed mode.

FIGS. 8A-8B are schematic elevational views of a representative dentalcare kit that includes a dental care device according to someembodiments. FIG. 8A shows the kit in a docked, charging mode; FIG. 8Bshows, in isolation, a mouthpiece attachment forming part of the dentalcare kit; FIG. 8C shows the dental care device in front view; and FIG.8D shows the dental care device in side view.

FIG. 9 is a schematic view illustrating a representative dental caresystem in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 10A is a block diagram illustrating a representative dental caredevice in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 10B is a graphical view illustrating representative drive profilesfor use with the dental care device of FIG. 10A in accordance with someembodiments.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a representative dispenserdevice in accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS. 12A-12B are block diagrams illustrating a representative serversystem in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 13A is table illustrating example frequencies for variousrepresentative modes of operation of the dental care device of FIG. 10Ain accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS. 13B-13G are schematic views illustrating representativevibrational modes of a representative dental care device in accordancewith some embodiments.

FIGS. 14A-14B are exploded schematic views of a representative dentalcare device in accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS. 15A-15D are schematic views of a representative dental care devicein accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 16A is a schematic view of representative cleaning tips for arepresentative dental care device in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 16B is a schematic view of the cleaning tips of FIG. 16A engaging auser's teeth during operation of the dental care device in accordancewith some embodiments.

FIG. 17 is an exploded schematic view illustrating a representativedental mold system in accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS. 18A-18B are schematic views illustrating representative dentalinsert molds in accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS. 19A-19C are schematic views illustrating a representativemouthpiece assembly in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 20A is a perspective view of a representative dispenser device inaccordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 20B is a perspective view of the dispenser device of FIG. 20A withits cover open in accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS. 21A-21B are perspective views of the dispenser device of FIG. 20Awith dental care devices disposed under a dispensing port of thedispenser device in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating a method for fabricating arepresentative teeth cleaning device in accordance with someembodiments.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating a method for operating arepresentative dental care device in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating a method for operating arepresentative dispenser device in accordance with some embodiments.

Like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts throughout theseveral views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments, examples of whichare illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following detaileddescription, numerous specific details are set forth in order to providea thorough understanding of the various described embodiments. However,it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the variousdescribed embodiments may be practiced without these specific details.In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components,circuits, and networks have not been described in detail so as not tounnecessarily obscure aspects of the embodiments.

Many modifications and variations of this disclosure can be made withoutdeparting from its spirit and scope, as will be apparent to thoseskilled in the art. The specific embodiments described herein areoffered by way of example only, and the disclosure is to be limited onlyby the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope ofequivalents to which such claims are entitled.

In the following description, “approximately,” “about,” and“substantially” mean that a quantity (e.g., a length) can vary from agiven value (e.g., ten feet) by up to ±20% (e.g., ±two feet), and that adifference between two quantities or other items can vary by up to ±20%of the larger of the quantities.

The disclosed embodiments include a dental care device for use inpersonal dental care, the device including: (1) a cleaner body thatdefines a cleaning chamber shaped to the user's dentition and jawgeometry for receiving a group of teeth of a user; and (b) a powereddriving mechanism that is mechanically coupled to the cleaner body andthat is configured for imparting drive movement to the cleaner bodyduring reception of the group of teeth in the cleaning chamber, to causecleaning of the teeth.

Another aspect of the disclosure provides for a method of personaldental care that includes: (1) placing a group of teeth of a user in acleaning chamber provided for the group of teeth by a cleaner body; and(2) while the group of teeth is received in the cleaning chamber,imparting movement to the cleaner body manually or by operation of amotorized mechanism, thereby to cause cleaning of the group of teethhoused in the cleaner body.

In some embodiments, the cleaner body is customized for the user. Insome embodiments, the cleaning chamber is complementary in shape toteeth and jaw of a particular user only. Thus, the shape of the cleaningchamber is optionally unique.

In some embodiments, the cleaning chamber is shaped for receiving a setof teeth on a particular dental arch of the user. In some embodiments,the cleaning chamber is shaped for receiving all of the teeth on theuser's upper jaw, or all of the teeth on the user's lower jaw. For easeof description, the complete set of teeth on any particular arch isreferred to herein as a dental arch set.

In some embodiments, the cleaner body is an arch-shaped tray that isoptionally formed based on a dental imprint or scan of the correspondingdental arch of the associated user. In some embodiments, the cleanertray is a molded component of a polymeric plastics material. In someembodiments, a method of fabrication includes obtaining a tray moldhaving an imprint of the corresponding dental arch of the particularuser, and forming the cleaner tray based on the tray mold.

In some embodiments, the device includes a complementary pair of cleanertrays (also sometimes called mouthpieces herein), each of which isconfigured for receiving a respective one of the dental arch sets of theuser. Each cleaner tray may in such a case be an attachment configuredfor removable and replaceable connection to the driving mechanism, toallow for separate use of the cleaner trays on the respective dentalarch sets. In other embodiments, the cleaner body may define oppositelyoutwardly facing cleaning chambers for both arches, so that both dentalarches can simultaneously be cleaned by reception in the unified cleanerbody.

The cleaning chamber is optionally shaped such that substantially eachtooth received in the cleaning chamber is bilaterally enveloped byopposite sidewalls of the cleaning chamber, such that both an outermajor face and an inner major face of each tooth is received in thecleaning chamber, and the sidewall of the cleaning chamber provided bythe cleaner tray extends towards a base of the teeth for at least amajority of the tooth's height. In some embodiments, the sidewallsextend up to, or over a gumline of the user. In some embodiments, thecleaning chamber is shaped to match the user's jaw size both for maxillaand the mandible circumference and curvature angle.

In some embodiments, the device includes cleaning elements (e.g.,cleaning tips) on the cleaner body and protruding into the cleaningchamber for contact engagement with the teeth, when the device is inuse. In some embodiments, the cleaning elements comprise a plurality offilamentary elements, such as bristles or sponge-like filaments,projecting into the cleaning chamber from a chamber wall provided by thecleaner tray and defining the cleaning chamber. In some embodiments, thecleaning elements comprise protrusions or other irregularities on thechamber wall. Such protrusions are optionally integrally formed with thecleaner tray, so that the cleaner tray and the protrusions are providedby a single component of monolithic construction. In the descriptionthat follows, described variations of the arrangement of cleaningelements on the cleaner body will be understood as applying (instead, orin addition) analogously to the arrangement of protrusions on thechamber wall.

In some embodiments, the cleaning elements have a substantially regulararrangement in the cleaning chamber, so that the number of cleaningelements per unit of surface area on the chamber wall is substantiallyequal throughout. In some embodiments, however, the cleaning elementsare arranged on the cleaner body to have a greater concentration (e.g.,a greater number of cleaning elements per unit of surface area) in someareas of the chamber wall than in others. In some embodiments, greaterconcentrations of cleaning elements are provided in areas where morevigorous cleaning is desired. For example, the cleaning elements may bemore densely concentrated towards the ends of the dental arch set,corresponding to areas of the mouth most prone to dental decay. In someembodiments, the cleaning elements are arranged to be more denselyconcentrated at embrasures between adjacent teeth and/or at the bottomof the teeth.

Instead, or in addition, the cleaning element arrangement is such thatphysical properties of the cleaning elements vary for different areas ofthe cleaning chamber. For example, softer or more flexible cleaningelements are optionally provided at positions on the chamber wallcorresponding or adjacent to the gumline of the user, thereby lesseningthe likelihood of irritating the gums. Stiffer or less flexible bristlesare optionally provided at positions corresponding to potential problemareas, such as towards the backmost teeth and/or corresponding to teethembrasures.

In some embodiments, the arrangement of cleaning elements on the cleanertray are customized. For example, the arrangement of cleaning elements(in positioning and/or in physical properties) are optionally specificand unique to the particular associated user. Some embodiments include:(1) performing or obtaining a dental scan of the respective dental archsets of a particular user, (2) identifying potential problem areas basedon the dental scan, and (3) arranging the bristles in the cleaningchamber based on the identified problem areas. In some embodiments,potential problem areas are provided with a greater concentration ofcleaning elements, and/or with cleaning elements whose physicalproperties are selected to cause more effective dental cleaning due topowered contact engagement with the teeth.

In some embodiments, the driving mechanism includes a vibrationmechanism for causing driven vibration and/or reciprocation of thecleaner tray. In some embodiments, the driving mechanism is configuredfor causing subsonic oscillation of the cleaner body, e.g., at afrequency lower than 20 Hertz (Hz).

The vibration speed of toothbrushes is often measured in movements perminute, where conventional electric toothbrushes vibrate at a speed ofbetween a few thousand times a minute to approximately 10,000 to 12,000times per minute. Sonic toothbrushes are so called because the speed orfrequency of their vibration (as opposed to the sound of the motor)falls within the average range that is used by people in spokencommunication. Voiced speech of a typical adult male will have afundamental frequency from 85 to 180 Hz (10,200 to 21,000 movements perminute), and that of a typical adult female from 165 to 255 Hz (19,800to 30,600 movements per minute).

In contrast, ultrasonic toothbrushes work by generating an ultrasonicwave, the frequency of which may begin at 20,000 Hz (2,400,000 movementsper minute). The most common frequency for existing ultrasonictoothbrushes, however, is in the region of approximately 1.6 MHz, whichtranslates to 96,000,000 waves or 192,000,000 movements per minute. Asdescribed below, the devices of this disclosure in some embodiments areconfigured primarily for sonic cleaning, in other embodiments areconfigured primarily for ultrasonic cleaning, and in yet furtherembodiments are configured for cleaning both by sonic and ultrasonicaction.

In some embodiments, the vibration mechanism is configured for causingsonic vibration of the cleaner tray (or mouthpiece assembly 12). In someembodiments, cleaning by sonic vibration relies on sweeping cleaningelement movement at a relatively high amplitude (relative to ultrasonicmovement, which will be discussed below). In some embodiments, suchsonic vibration is in a frequency range between 20 Hz and 20 kHz,corresponding to 12,000-24,000 oscillations or cycles per minute. Insome embodiments, sonic cleaning relies on the sweeping motion of thecleaning elements to clean the teeth by scrubbing engagement. In someembodiments, the induced vibration of the cleaner body is similar oranalogous to vibrations generated in conventional brush heads.

In some embodiments, instead, or in addition, the vibration mechanism isconfigured for causing ultrasonic vibration of the cleaner tray (ormouthpiece assembly 12). Ultrasonic motion is typically at a loweramplitude than is the case for sonic motion. In some embodiments, suchultrasonic vibration is in the frequency above 20 kHz (approximately 2.4million movements per minute), for example being at about 1.6 MHz(approximately 192 million movements permit). In some embodiments,ultrasonic cleaning operates by the generation of ultrasonic waves thatbreak bacterial chains making up dental plaque and moving or weakeningtheir attachment to tooth enamel.

In some instances and embodiments, such induced vibration of themouthpiece (e.g., cleaner tray 125, FIG. 1B) also agitates naturalcleaning fluids (such as saliva) around the teeth. Because of thefast-moving vibration of the cleaner tray, minuscule bubbles are createdthat push out dental plaque that may be lying just underneath the gumline. These fluids not only push away the plaque, they also dilute andmove bacteria-produced acids. In some instances and embodiments, thisfluid movement and plaque removal occurs without the cleaning elementsof the cleaner tray touching the enamel surface.

In some embodiments, the induced vibration of the cleaner body of thepresent disclosure is similar or analogous to ultrasonic vibrationsgenerated by brush heads of existing toothbrushes available.

In some embodiments, induced vibration of the cleaner body is acombination of ultrasonic and sonic motion. In embodiments where thedevice is configured to induce a combination of ultrasonic and sonicoscillation or vibration in the cleaner body, sonic vibration isoptionally provided to produce a sweeping action to remove particles andbacterial remnants previously broken up or weakened by ultrasonic waveaction.

In some embodiments, the dental care device is configured for dentalcleaning at least in part by operation of fluid dynamic interactionbetween the user's teeth and/or gums and liquids contained in thecleaning chamber. As discussed above, such high-speed brushing action insome instances creates pressure waves and shear forces in the liquidsaround the teeth, thereby causing or facilitating teeth cleaning (e.g.,without physically contacting of the teeth with the cleaning elements ofthe device). In some instances and embodiments, such a fluid dynamiccleaning mechanism further operates through the generation of minutebubbles that forcefully impinge on the tooth surfaces, thereby to causedislodgment of plaque and/or other undesired substances from toothenamel.

In some embodiments, the device is configured for manual manipulation oragitation, thus operating without a motorized driving mechanism. In suchembodiments, the device optionally comprises a handle connected to thecleaner tray and configured for manual control by the user, to insertthe cleaner tray into the mouth and perform manual brushing.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a dental care device 10 in accordancewith some embodiments. The device 10 includes a stand 18 (e.g., acomputer-interface-and-battery-charging stand) and a teeth-cleaningdevice 14, which is configured to clean a user's teeth in a reducedamount of time as compared to conventional teeth-cleaning devices,without causing discomfort to the user.

In accordance with some embodiments, the stand 18 is configured forcommunicatively coupling to a computer (not shown), and/or forelectrically coupling to an energy source, such as an electrical outlet(not shown), via connector 22 (e.g., a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port).In some embodiments, the stand 18 provides an interface through whichone can use the computer to charge a battery of the cleaning device 14and/or to configure the cleaning device. For example, one can uploadsoftware, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware, from thecomputer to the cleaning device 14, e.g., to select and to configureoperational features of the cleaning device. As another example, one cancouple the stand 18 to an AC adapter to charge the battery of thecleaning device 14 (e.g., without connecting to a computer). In someembodiments, the stand 18 includes a user interface 20 enabling a userto adjust one or more settings or preferences and/or enablingpresentation of device data to the user.

In accordance with some embodiments, the cleaning device 14 includes anelectronics enclosure 16, an optional coupling 15, and a mouthpieceassembly 12. In some embodiments, as described below in more detail, theelectronics enclosure 16 houses electronic circuitry, one or morerechargeable batteries, and one or more actuators (e.g., motors)configured to drive the mouthpiece assembly 12. In some embodiments, theelectronic circuitry is configured to charge the one or more batteriesand when the cleaning device 14 is disposed in the stand 18. In someembodiments, the electronic circuitry is configured to manage power onthe electronics enclosure 16, to control the operation of the one ormore actuators, and/or to communicate with the stand 18. In someembodiments, the electronic circuitry is configured to communicate witha computer, a wireless router, or other device so that the electroniccircuitry can send and receive information via the internet to/from oneor more remote devices, such as cloud or other servers. In someembodiments, the electronic circuitry is configurable via software,firmware, or both software and firmware, and can communicate over awired connection or a wireless link via any suitable communicationprotocol such as Bluetooth® or Wi-Fi®, and via any suitable circuitry orhardware such as an RFID tag or circuitry. In some embodiments, thecleaning device 14 includes a user interface (e.g., on the electronicsenclosure 16). In some embodiments, the user interface includes a screen(e.g., a touch screen), one or more buttons or affordances, one or moremicrophones, and/or one or more speakers.

In some embodiments, the coupling 15 is configured to couple themouthpiece assembly 12 to the electronics enclosure 16 such that one ormore motors in the electronics enclosure drive motion of the mouthpieceassembly (e.g., excite the mouthpiece assembly). In some embodiments,the coupling is integral with either or both of the electronicsenclosure 16 and the mouthpiece assembly 12. In some embodiments, thecoupling 15 is formed from any suitable material, and can have anysuitable shape and dimensions. In some embodiments, the coupling 15 isconfigured to allow removal and replacement of the mouthpiece assembly12, e.g., such that multiple mouthpiece assemblies may be selectivelyused with the electronics enclosure 16.

In some embodiments, as described below in more detail, the mouthpieceassembly 12, which is optionally custom designed for a user, isconfigured to be inserted into the user's mouth to clean all of theuser's teeth quickly and concurrently.

In operation, the one or more actuators within the electronics enclosure16 drive the mouthpiece assembly 12 such that the mouthpiece assemblycleans all of the user's teeth equally well or better, and insignificantly less time, than a conventional manual or electrictoothbrush. For example, the actuators and mouthpiece assembly 12 areconfigured to clean a user's teeth fully, completely (e.g., to remove atleast 99% of plaque buildup on the user's teeth), and uniformly within atime that ranges from approximately five seconds to approximately thirtyseconds (e.g., within twenty seconds or less). Therefore, even at thehigh end (thirty seconds) of this time range, the teeth-cleaning device14 not only cleans a user's teeth on par with, or significantly betterthan, conventional manual and electric toothbrushes, it also reduces thetime for cleaning the user's teeth by approximately 75% as compared tothe two-minute (or more) cleaning time recommended for conventionaltoothbrushes.

FIG. 1B is a schematic three-dimensional view of a dental care device inthe example form of a whole-arch dental care device 100 in accordancewith some embodiments. The dental care device 100 comprises a cleanerbody in the example form of a cleaner tray 125 for receiving an upperarch set of teeth of a user (e.g., the whole set of teeth on the user'supper jaw), and a housing 110 to which the cleaner tray 125 is connectedfor driven movement of the cleaner tray 125 during use. As will bedescribed in greater detail below, the housing 110 holds an electricmotor and an onboard power source (in the example form of a rechargeablebattery, such as a lithium-ion battery) for causing driven oscillationof the cleaner tray 125 when activated by a user-operable press button115.

The cleaner tray 125 is a generally arch-shaped element defining acleaning chamber 127 complementary to an upper dental arch set of aparticular user. Within the cleaning chamber 127 is located anarrangement of cleaning elements for physical contact engagement withthe user's teeth and/or gums when the set of teeth is inserted into thecleaning chamber 127. In the example of FIG. 1B, the cleaning elementscomprise a plurality of cleaning tips 140.

The cleaning chamber 127 in FIG. 1B is generally U-shaped in plan view(corresponding to the U-shape of the corresponding dental arch), and isgenerally U-shaped in cross-section (corresponding more or less to alateral width of corresponding teeth). The cleaning chamber 127 thus hasan inner sidewall 145 for face-to-face location adjacent andsubstantially parallel to inwardly facing major faces of thecorresponding teeth, and a substantially parallel, opposed outersidewall 150 for face-to-face location adjacent and substantiallyparallel to outwardly facing major surfaces of the corresponding teeth.The height of the sidewalls 145, 150 from a base of the cleaning chamber127 is in this example embodiment is somewhat greater than the height ofthe teeth, so that the sidewalls 145, 150 extend past the gum line ofthe user when in use.

In accordance with some embodiments, the cleaning chamber 127 ispersonalized, being customized for use by a specific associated useronly, in that the cleaning chamber 127 has been formed based on a dentalimprint of the particular user and is thus substantially complementaryin shape to the corresponding arch of the particular user. Suchcustomization of the shape of the cleaning chamber 127 promotes properalignment of the cleaning tips 140 with the respective teeth of thecorresponding set, while also ensuring a comfortable fit of the cleanertray 125 in the user's mouth.

The cleaning tips 140 are arranged on the cleaner tray 125 to projectcantilever-fashion into the cleaning chamber. In some embodiments, aswill be discussed at greater length later, physical properties and/ordistribution density of the cleaning tips 140 vary from one part of thecleaning chamber 127 to another. In some embodiments, the cleaning tips140 (or corresponding cleaning elements) have a substantially regulardistribution throughout the cleaning chamber 127.

In accordance with some embodiments, the cleaner tray 125 is rigidlyconnected to the housing 110 by an attachment stem 130; enablingtransmission of vibratory or oscillating movement from the motor in thehousing 110 to the cleaner tray 125. The housing 110 can thus functionas a handle by which the dental care device 100 is held to insert thecleaner tray 125 into the mouth, and to hold the cleaner tray 125 inposition during brushing.

The vibration mechanism incorporated in the housing 110 is configured,in some embodiments, to drive movement of the cleaner tray 125 so as tocause cleaning of the teeth at least in part by ultrasonic action. Forexample, the dental care device 100 is configured to generate ultrasoundin order remove plaque and/or render plaque bacteria harmless. In thisexample, ultrasonic cleaning action comprises reciprocating oroscillating movement of the cleaner tray 125 at a frequency of about 1.6MHz. In some embodiments, a movement cycle comprises a linear to and fromovement and/or a circular or elliptical movement.

In some embodiments, the dental care device 100 is, instead or inaddition, configured for sonic cleaning, e.g., with the vibrationmechanism being configured for producing at least some vibration of thecleaner tray in the audible range. In some embodiments, the frequencyrange of such driven movement is in the range of 200 to 400 Hz,translating to 12,000-24,000 movement cycles per minute.

In some embodiments, the dental care device 100 provides foruser-controlled switching between sonic and ultrasonic cleaning, forexample by operation of the press button 115. In some embodiments,control circuitry of the dental care device 100 is configured to allowcycling through different modes (e.g., based on repeated pressing of thebutton 115). In some embodiments, the different modes include anultrasonic mode, a sonic mode, and a switched off mode. In someembodiments, the dental care device 100 is preprogrammed toautomatically perform a cleaning cycle (e.g., a cleaning cycle thatcomprises both ultrasonic and sonic vibrations) with vibrations producedin a predefined sequence. In such a case, for example, a few seconds ofultrasonic vibration may serve to generate ultrasonic waves to break upbacterial chains that make up the dental plaque and remove or weakentheir methods of attachment to the tooth surface.

Fluid dynamic action caused by impelled movement of the cleaner tray 125disrupts plaque at traditionally hard-to-reach areas, such as betweenteeth and below the gum line. Cleaning by use of the dental care device100 thus serves not only to clean the major outer faces of the teeth,but additionally effectively performs a flossing operation by causingremoval of foreign material from spaces between adjacent teeth. In someembodiments, the fluid dynamic cleaning effects operate at a distance ofup to 4 mm from the contact points between the cleaning tips 140 and theteeth. Thereafter, sonic vibration is optionally produced for physicallycleaning and removing the weakened or loosened materials. The vibrationmechanism is in some embodiments configured such that the amplitudes ofthe sonic movement will typically be larger than that of movementsproduced during ultrasonic cleaning.

In operation, the user may use the assembled dental care device 100 asillustrated in FIG. 1B to clean the teeth of the upper arch, and maythereafter (or before) use an analogous attachment 120B (FIG. 3) forcleaning the teeth of the lower arch. In some embodiments, each one ofthese operations comprises gripping the dental care device 100 by thehousing 110; inserting the cleaner tray 125 into the mouth; biting downlightly on the cleaner tray 125, so that the teeth are snugly insertedin the cleaning chamber 127; and then activating the driven sonic and/orultrasonic vibration of the cleaning chamber 127 by operation of thepush button 115. It has been found that effective dental cleaning isachieved within a brushing period of as little as about 5 seconds foreach arch.

In some embodiments, the user is directed to hold the cleaner tray 125substantially stationary in the mouth during driven vibration thereof.In other embodiments, however, the cleaner tray 125 may be moved aroundin the mouth during vibration. In one example, the cleaning process foreach arch comprises a five second sequence in which the user moves thecleaner tray 125: forward for one second, backward for one second, downfor one second, up for one second, and side-to-side for one second. Ithas been found that such a scrubbing motion is highly effective, duepartly to the high number of brush strokes per minute generatedsimultaneously across the entire dental arch.

In some embodiments, the dental care device 100 is configured for usewithout any toothpaste or specific oral care agent. In some embodiments,conventional toothpaste is applied to the teeth or to the cleaningchamber 127 prior to use. In some embodiments, the dental care device100 is configured for use with a dental paste or oral care agentconstituted specifically for use with the cleaner tray 125. In someembodiments, such an oral care agent is configured for promoting fluiddynamic cleaning actions, as described herein, when applied to the teethor to the cleaning chamber 127 prior to reception of the teeth in thecleaner tray 125.

It will be appreciated that, due to the generally U-shapedcross-sectional profile of the cleaning chamber 127, the oral care agentwill be retained within the cleaning chamber 127 during cleaning. Theoral care agent is in some embodiments substantially free of abrasivesto preserve tooth enamel. In some embodiments, the oral care agent has aviscosity a higher than that of conventional toothpastes. In someembodiments, the oral care agent is a very high viscosity fluid, theviscosity being selected to promote transmission and thereforeeffectiveness of sonic and/or ultrasonic waves induced by trayvibration. The oral care agent is in some embodiments an all-naturalproduct.

In FIG. 2, numeral 200 generally indicates a toothbrush kit 200 thatincludes the handle housing 110, a charging base or stand 212, and threeattachments which are configured for removable and replaceableconnection to the housing 110. The attachments in this exampleembodiment includes the upper arch attachment 120 described previously,a similar lower arch attachment 120B which is connected to itsattachment stem 130 in an inverted orientation relative to the upperarch attachment 120, and a conventional toothbrush attachment 207, whichis shown as being connected to the housing 110. Note that theattachments 120, 120B, each comprises a respective cleaner tray 125 towhich the corresponding attachment stem 130 is rigidly connected.Removability and replaceability of the attachments 120 are thus achievedby this engageable coupling between the stem 130 and the housing 110. Insome embodiments, the stem 130 is rigidly connected to a rigid frameworkof the cleaner tray 120, the cleaner tray 120 being a molded componentsupported by its internal framework and through which vibratory movementis transferred from the stem 130.

In accordance with some embodiments, the stand provides a chargingsocket 224 for receiving and supporting the housing 110 in an uprightorientation while electrically connecting the battery inside the housing110 to a mains power supply for recharging the battery. The stand 212further provides two separate seats 236 for holding the unusedattachments 120 in an upright orientation in which the respectivecleaner trays 125 are clear of a support surface.

FIG. 3 shows another view of the stand 212 holding the upper archattachment 120 and the lower arch attachment 120B in stored positionsfor selective use. Some embodiments of the kit 200 further include anaccessory for cleaning the cleaner tray(s) 125 by removal of foreignmaterial from the cleaning chamber 127. In some embodiments, thecleaning accessory is configured for ultrasonic cleaning of the trays.

In some embodiments, a dental cleaning device in accordance with thedisclosure is provided and used for dental cleaning without drivenagitation of the cleaner tray 125. A partial view of such a manualtoothbrush 400 is shown in FIG. 4 and comprises a cleaner tray 125 suchas that described above attached to a rigid elongated handle 404, whichfunctions analogously to conventional manual toothbrush handles. As canbe noted in the foregoing drawings, as well as in FIG. 5 (which showsdental cleaning use of another embodiment of a dental care device 100according to the disclosure by a user 500) the handle 404 of the manualtoothbrush 400 is attached to the cleaner tray 125 at or adjacent theapex of the arch defined by the cleaner tray 125. The same applies toattachment of the respective attachment stems 130 to the cleaner trays125 in some embodiments.

Such placement of the handle 404 (or, in other embodiments, theattachment stem 130) causes the toothbrush 400 to be aligned more orless with a midline of the user's face, when the cleaner tray 125receives the corresponding set of teeth. In other embodiments, thehandle 404 or attachment stem 130 is somewhat offset from the axis ofsymmetry of the cleaner tray 125.

For manual dental cleaning by use of the toothbrush 400, the cleanertray 125 is inserted into the mouth, being manipulated via the handle404, and the user bites down lightly on the cleaner tray 125 to ensure acomplementary mating fit between the corresponding set of teeth and thecleaning chamber 127. Thereafter, the cleaner tray is moved backwardsand forwards via the handle 404, to cause sweeping movements of thecleaning tips 140 over teeth and gums. Thereafter, the opposite set ofteeth may be similarly cleaned using a separate device (or attachment120) for that arch. Note that the pair of attachments shown in FIGS. 2and 3 may be configured for either manual or automated use, so that theuser can grip the respective attachments 120 by their respectiveattachment stem 130 to clean the respective arches.

In embodiments described above, each cleaner tray forms a distinct unitfor cleaning a separate one of the user's opposite dental arches. Inother embodiments, however, a unified cleaner body is provided thatdefines respective cleaning chambers 127 for both the upper and thelower arch (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 15A-15D). The user will in suchembodiments simultaneously insert both the lower arch and the upper archinto the respective cleaning chambers provided by the single cleanerbody, so that subsequent vibration, oscillation, or manual agitation ofthe cleaner body causes simultaneous cleaning action of both the upperarch and the lower arch.

This disclosure also extends to methods of facilitating personal dentalhealth for a user by providing the user with a customized dental caredevice 100 as described above. In some embodiments, the customizedcleaner tray 125 is formed based at least in part on a dental scanperformed at a facility such as a dentist's office. In some embodiments,the dentist performs a 3-D scan, taking a digital impression of theteeth, embrasures (e.g., the space between teeth for flossing), and/orgums. These impressions are translated to customized and personalizedbrushing trays for both upper and lower arches (e.g., via a moldingprocess and/or a 3-D printing process).

The 3-D scanning operation calculates each tooth's shape, curvature, andanatomy. In some embodiments, the 3-D scan also records the interdentalspaces (e.g., the flossing areas or embrasure areas of the respectiveteeth). In some embodiments, the cleaning chamber 127 is then formedbased on a somewhat enlarged model, or with an offset spacing relativeto the original imprint, to provide space for cleaning elements betweenthe chamber wall and the teeth. In some embodiments, the scanned imprintis enlarged by an offset of 1-3 mm, depending in part on the individualpatient's preference.

In some embodiments, the offset spaces are then covered with cleaningtips, which may be angled to precisely clean each surface of the tooth.While, in some embodiments, the cleaning tips are arranged touniversally project more or less perpendicularly from the chamber wall,the cleaning tips in other embodiments have varied angles of incidencerelative to the chamber wall, with their angles being determined atleast in part for optimal cleaning efficiency. In some embodiments,cleaning tip arrangement at respective embrasures is configured topromote cleaning tip access to the respective embrasures, for example,by providing cleaning tips angled for optimal or improved brushingaction in the embrasures. As described elsewhere, the interdental areasmay in some cases be cleaned via a wave action.

A customer service thus provided to facilitate customized dental careoptionally includes providing the user with the option of choosing aparticular cleaner tray 125 and cleaning tip arrangement from aplurality of different available options, based on user preference. Forexample, a user with a strong gag reflex may choose a smaller offset, sothat the body of the cleaner tray can be smaller and fit more tightly ontheir teeth. Someone who, on the other hand, prefers greater leeway tomove the brush within the mouth (e.g., to add mechanical brushing alongwith sonic and/or ultrasonic brushing) may select a larger offset.Fabrication of the cleaner trays in some embodiments comprises injectionof prefabricated sheets of a polymeric plastics material into a moldshaped in accordance with the dental patient's jaw and teeth geometry.

In some embodiments, the prefabricated sheets have bristle-likefilaments injected into the sheet or integrally formed therewith, toprovide the fibers or cleaning elements in the cleaning chamber 127. Anexample of the prefabricated bristled sheet 600 is illustrated in FIG.6. In some embodiments, manufacture of the cleaner tray 125 comprises a3-D printing operation to the prefabricated bristled sheets based on theabove-described 3-D scan.

In some instances and embodiments, the cleaner tray 125 is formed basedon a user-provided imprint. Users who, for example, do not have accessto a dental scanning facility, or who wish to limit costs, may opt toform the dental imprint at home. Some embodiments include delivering,upon request, to the user a blank mold for use in forming of the cleanertray 125, e.g., by mail or courier service. The user can then form adental imprint in the mold by biting into it, whereafter the moldbearing the dental imprint is returned. The mold is then used at acentral manufacturing facility to produce the customized cleaningtray(s) 125 in a manner similar or analogous to that described abovewith reference to the 3-D scan. The customized cleaner tray 125 is thenreturned to the user (e.g., by mail, courier service, or personal pickup) for personal use. In some embodiments, manufacture of the cleanertray 125 includes a 3-D printing process.

Some embodiments include continually sending to the user, on a regularor periodic basis, replacement cleaner trays 125, based on the originalmold or 3-D scan. A regular period for such cleaner tray replacement maybe based on the rate of deterioration, in use, of the cleaner tray 125.In some embodiments, replacement cleaner trays 125 are, for example,automatically (e.g., without a specific user request) sent to the userat three-month intervals. Some embodiments include, on an ongoing basis,obtaining new dental imprints or 3-D scans for the user at spacedintervals, and producing subsequent cleaner trays 125 based on the mostrecent 3-D scan or dental imprint.

As mentioned previously with respect to FIGS. 1-3, the arrangementand/or configuration of cleaning elements 140 in the cleaner trays 125can in some embodiments be varied for different positions in thecleaning chamber 127, e.g., by varied positioning and/or distributiondensity of the cleaning elements 140. In some embodiments, thisvariation is generic, applying to multiple (e.g., all) users. In someembodiments, the variation is customized based on individual user needs.

Generic variations optionally include providing higher cleaning tipdensities or stiffness in areas that are universally or typically ofconcern. Thus, in some embodiments, the cleaning elements 140 arearranged in the cleaning chamber 127 such that the cleaning elements arearranged more densely and/or are individually stiffer towards the endsof the arch (corresponding to the back teeth), while softer and/or lessdense arrangements are provided adjacent the gum line.

In some embodiments, individualized variations in cleaning elementpositioning and/or properties are based on identified areas of concernor weaknesses in the corresponding dental arch of the user. In someembodiments, areas of the particular user's teeth that are identified asactual or potential problem areas (e.g., suffering decay or earlyindicators of decay, or identified as particularly difficult to cleanareas) have an increased cleaning element stiffness or concentration onthe corresponding areas of the cleaning chamber 127.

In some embodiments, methods of facilitating personal dental cleaninginclude performing a dental scan of the user, identifying actual orpotential problem areas based on the dental scan, and customizing thespatial arrangement and/or distribution of different types of cleaningelements (or cleaning elements with different physical properties) inthe cleaning chamber 127 based on the identified problem areas.

In some embodiments, the cleaning elements are integrally formed withthe material that provides a body of the cleaner tray 125. In someembodiments, the cleaner tray 125 is of monolithic construction, withthe cleaning elements being provided by protrusions or other cleaningformations formed on the interior surface of the cleaning chamber 127.In some embodiments, manufacture of the cleaner tray 125 includesforming the cleaner tray in a molding operation from a single mold,without prior positioning of the cleaning elements in a mold chamber orafterwards attaching the cleaning elements to the molded body of thecleaner tray 125.

In some embodiments, the mold is formed with connection formations forconnection of individual cleaning elements. In some embodiments, thebody of the cleaner tray 125 is formed with an arrangement of connectionsockets to which individual cleaning elements of polymeric plasticsmaterial are connectable by snap-fit engagement. In some embodiments, aset of relatively soft, sponge-like polymeric plastics cleaning elementsare connected socket-spigot fashion to a molded base or body of acleaner tray. In some embodiments, the cleaning elements are tightlypacked together in a grid, so that closely spaced, slightly concave endfaces of the cleaning elements together form an engagement surface forcontact engagement with the teeth and for promoting fluid dynamic teethcleaning action.

In some embodiments, the cleaning elements are arranged on the cleanertray 125 such that they do not touch the tooth enamel during cleaning.It will be appreciated that such an arrangement may be provided forinstances where the dental care device 100 is configured for ultrasoniccleaning, with the cleaning elements being configured for promotingultrasonic fluid dynamic cleaning, without physical scrubbing of theteeth and/or gums.

Turning now to FIGS. 7A-7B, therein is shown a dental care device 700 inaccordance with some embodiments. Functioning of a cleaner tray 725forming part of the device 700 is substantially similar to thatdescribed previously with reference to FIGS. 1-3. In FIGS. 7A-7B, thevibration mechanism is enclosed in a knob-like handle 740 attached tothe cleaner tray 725 at its apex, or in proximity to the apex (e.g.,within 1 cm, 2 cm, or 5 cm) in accordance with some embodiments. In someembodiments, a power source for the vibration mechanism is carried in abase unit 750, the vibration mechanism being connected to the powersource via an electrical power cord 760 connecting the handle 740 to thebase unit 750.

In accordance with some embodiments, the base unit 750 further defines acomplementary docking chamber 770 for the cleaner tray 725. Inaccordance with some embodiments, when the cleaner tray 725 is receivedin the docking chamber 770 (see FIG. 7B) the cleaning chamber 127 of thecleaner tray 725 is located wholly within the docking chamber 770, beinghidden from view and from exposure to the atmosphere. The device 700 insuch a stowed mode forms a compact portable unit in which the cleaningtray 725 is sealingly located within the base unit 750, with the handle740 projecting upwards from the base unit 750 for easy access by theuser.

In accordance with some embodiments, the base unit 750 is configured notmerely for holding the cleaner tray 725 such that it is protected fromexposure between brushings, but is additionally configured to activelysanitize the cleaner tray 725 during docking. In some embodiments, thebase unit 750 is provided with an ultra-violet (UV) cleaning arrangementthat irradiates the cleaner tray 725 in general, and the cleaningchamber 127 in particular, with sanitizing UV light when the cleanertray 725 is inserted in the docking chamber 770. In some embodiments,the base unit 750 is configured to effect cleaning of the cleaner tray725 during docking by causing exposure of the cleaning chamber 127 to asanitizing liquid. In some embodiments, the cleaner tray 127 forms aliquid-tight seal with the base unit 750, to contain the sanitizingliquid safely and to permit use of the device 700 as a travel accessory.

FIGS. 8A-8D show a dental care kit 800 in accordance with someembodiments. In some embodiments, a dental care device 810 forming partof the kit 800 functions in a manner similar or analogous to thatdescribed with reference to FIGS. 1-3.

In accordance with some embodiments, the dental care device 810 has ahousing 815 that houses a vibration mechanism in the form of an electricmotor, together with a coupled rechargeable electric battery. As shownin FIG. 8A, the housing 815 has a base that is receivable in acomplementary mating charging socket defined by a docking station 820.In some embodiments, when the dental care device 810 is docked on thedocking station 820, an electrical connection is automatically formedbetween the rechargeable battery and mains power to which the dockingstation 820 is connected, thereby recharging the battery.

In accordance with some embodiments, the dental care device 810 includesa reversible mouthpiece attachment 835 (see FIG. 8B) that is connectableto an upper end of the housing 810 in either a storage mode (FIG. 8A) orin an operational mode (FIGS. 8C-8D). In the storage mode shown in FIG.8A, a cleaner body 825 forming part of the attachment 835 is locatedwithin the interior of the housing 810, so that the cleaner body 825 ishidden from view and is not exposed to the atmosphere.

In accordance with some embodiments, a handle 840 of the attachment 810in this configuration serves as a lid for the housing 810. As wasdescribed with reference to FIG. 7, the housing 810 provides asanitizing mechanism (e.g., a UV cleaning system) that serves tosanitize the cleaner body 825 when the device 810 is in the storagemode. In the storage mode, the dental care device 810 forms aself-contained, sealed unit suitable for use as a travel accessory.

In some embodiments, the cleaner body 825 is configured forsimultaneously cleaning both dental arches of a user. As shown in brokenlines in FIG. 8D, the cleaner body 825 thus defines a pair of oppositelyoutwardly facing cleaning chambers 127, each being complementary inshape to a respective dental arch of the specific user for which thedevice 800 is customized. In use, the user can therefore insert thecleaner body 825 between their dental arches, bite down onto the cleanerbody 825 to receive each dental arch in its corresponding chamber 127,and can then clean both arches at the same time by activating thevibration mechanism. In accordance with some embodiments, the cleaningchambers 127 in FIGS. 8A-8D include no filamentary cleaning elements forcontact engagement with the teeth, but are instead configured to effectdental cleaning primarily through operation of fluid dynamics. In someembodiments, the cleaner body 825 includes cleaning tips such as thoseshown in FIGS. 15A-15D.

In the operational mode (FIG. 8C), however, the orientation of theattachment 835 is reversed, so that the handle 840 is firmly connectedto an upper end of the housing 810, the cleaner body 825 projecting awayfrom the housing 810 in accordance with some embodiments. Note that theselectively detachable coupling of the attachment 835 to the housing 810is such as to transfer operational or oscillatory forces from the motorin the housing 810 to the cleaner body 825.

It is a benefit of the described embodiments that it provides forpersonal dental cleaning that is both quicker and more effective than isthe case with conventional toothbrushes. In some circumstances, thewhole mouth can be cleaned in as little as 5-10 seconds, while achievingmore consistent and thorough cleaning results than with conventionaltoothbrushes. This is in part because all surfaces of the teeth of thecorresponding dental arch are brushed simultaneously, based on thevibratory or reciprocating movement that is imparted to the cleaner tray125 and that all of the cleaning elements therefore have in common.

It is also beneficial that all parts of the dental arch can consistentlybe accessed with equal ease and effectiveness by the cleaner tray 125,independent of user skill or dexterity. Many users are not able, forexample, to reach rearward facing surfaces behind the molars and areaswhere the tongue covers the teeth, or fail to do so consistently. Theseand other problems associated with user-controlled brushing patterns areexacerbated for children and the elderly, who often do not havesufficient manual dexterity for implementing correct brushing techniquesusing conventional toothbrushes. These problems are greatly reduced bythe described methods and devices.

Yet a further benefit of some of the described embodiments is thatflossing is effected simultaneously for all the embrasures in therelevant arch, and simultaneously with cleaning of other tooth and gumsurfaces (e.g., by operation of fluid action induced by tray vibrationwithin particular frequency ranges, as described), and without needingto pass a filament or other cleaning element sequentially through theembrasures of different teeth, as is the case with conventionalflossing. Again, simultaneous whole-arch dental flossing withoutforceful insertion of dental floss or toothpicks into the embrasurespromotes enamel and gum health by preventing abrasive contact with thesesurfaces.

A further benefit is that the arrangement of cleaning elements in thecleaning chamber 127 can be configured such as to avoid or preventdeleterious effect from bad brushing habits. Conventional tooth brushingcan, for example, be detrimental to the health of enamel and gums,particularly by abrasion that can be caused by overly brushing. Mostusers are also not able to maintain the correct angle of conventionaltoothbrushes heads.

As mentioned, the cleaner tray 125 in some embodiments is formed suchthat there is no bristle contact with the gums during brushing. In someembodiments, as described previously, dental cleaning by use of thedevice is effected without abrasive contact with tooth enamel, therebyprotecting enamel from wear caused by brushing and scraping.

Moreover, customization of the cleaner tray 125 provides foruser-specific cleaning mechanics, providing the ability to accommodatedental conditions unique to any particular user.

One aspect the above-describe example embodiments includes a toothbrush(dental care) device which includes a cleaner body that defines acleaning chamber shaped for receiving a group of teeth of a user. Thedevice optionally includes a powered driving mechanism that ismechanically coupled to the cleaner body and that is configured forimparting driven movement to the cleaner body during reception of thegroup of teeth in the cleaning chamber, to cause cleaning of the groupof teeth.

In some embodiments, the cleaner body is personalized for a specificuser, the cleaning chamber corresponding substantially to a dentalimprint of the corresponding group of teeth. In some embodiments, thecleaner body is configured for receiving a particular dental arch set ofthe user, being a set of teeth on a corresponding dental arch of theuser. In some embodiments, the cleaner body defines a pair of oppositelyoutwardly facing cleaning chambers. In such cases, each of the cleaningchambers is optionally shaped and configured for receiving a respectivedental arch set of the user, to allow simultaneous reception of all ofthe user's teeth by the cleaner body. In some embodiments, the cleanerbody is removably and replaceably coupled to the powered drivingmechanism.

In some embodiments, the cleaning chamber is shaped so as tosubstantially envelop, between opposing side walls of the cleaningchamber, each tooth received in the cleaning chamber. In someembodiments, the opposing side walls that define the cleaning chamberare shaped and configured such as to extend over respective gum lines ofthe group of teeth, when the group of teeth are fully received in thecleaning chamber.

In some embodiments, such a dental care device further includes cleaningelements carried by the cleaner body and protruding into the cleaningchamber for contact engagement with teeth received in the same chamber.In some embodiments, the cleaning elements include elongate filamentaryelements protruding into the cleaning chamber. In some embodiments, thecleaning elements include protrusions on a chamber wall defining thecleaning chamber. In some embodiments, the protrusions are of monolithicconstruction with the cleaner body.

In some embodiments, arrangement and configuration of the cleaningelements are non-uniform for different areas of a chamber wall thatdefines the cleaning chamber. In some embodiments, the cleaning elementsare arranged and configured for relatively more vigorous cleaning actionin one or more focus areas. In some embodiments, the one or more focusareas include areas corresponding to embrasures between adjacent teeth.Instead, or in addition, the one or more focus areas optionally includeareas corresponding to ends of a dental arch.

In some embodiments, variation in arrangement and configuration of thecleaning elements includes higher density concentration of the cleaningelements in the one or more focus areas. Instead, or in addition,variation in arrangement and configuration of the cleaning elementsoptionally includes differences between, on the one hand, one or morephysical properties of individual cleaning elements in the one or morefocus areas, and, on the other hand, corresponding physical propertiesof individual cleaning elements in other areas.

In some embodiments, the arrangement and configuration of the cleaningelements are customized for a specific user, such that at least one ofthe one or more focus areas corresponds in location to an identifieddental problem area of the corresponding specific user.

In some embodiments, the powered driving mechanism includes a vibrationmechanism for causing driven vibration of the cleaner body. In someembodiments, the vibration mechanism is configured for causing sonicand/or subsonic oscillation of the cleaner body. Instead, or inaddition, the vibration mechanism is configured for causing ultrasonicvibration of the cleaner body. In some embodiments, the vibrationmechanism is configured to enable dental cleaning via the cleaner bodyusing both sonic and ultrasonic cleaning.

FIG. 9 is a schematic view illustrating a dental care system 900 inaccordance with some embodiments. The dental care system 900 includes adental care device 10, an oral care agent dispenser device 904, a userdevice 906 (e.g., a smart phone, tablet, personal computer, or thelike), a server system 910, a third-party dental supplier 916, and athird-party dental health provider 918, communicatively coupled to oneanother via one or more networks 908 (e.g., one or more LANs, WANs,and/or the Internet). In some embodiments, the dental care device 10 isdirectly coupled to the dispenser device 904 and/or the user device 906(e.g., via Bluetooth protocol). As will be discussed in greater detailbelow with respect to FIGS. 12A-12B, the server system 910 includes adevice database 912 and an account database 914 in accordance with someembodiments.

FIG. 10A is a block diagram illustrating a dental care device 10 inaccordance with some embodiments. In some implementations, the dentalcare device 10 includes one or more processors (e.g., CPUs, ASICs,FPGAs, microprocessors, and the like) 1002, one or more communicationinterfaces 1026, memory 1030, mouthpiece assembly 12, energy assembly1020, drive assembly 1016, user interface(s) 1006, sensor(s) 1004, andone or more communication buses 1029 for interconnecting thesecomponents (sometimes called a chipset). In some implementations, theuser interface(s) 1006 includes one or more output devices that enablepresentation of media content, including one or more LED(s) 1010, one ormore speakers 1014, and/or one or more visual displays. In someimplementations, the user interface(s) 1006 also includes one or moreinput devices, including user interface components that facilitate userinput such as a voice-command input unit or microphone 1012, a touchscreen display, a touch-sensitive input pad, a gesture capturing camera,or other input buttons or controls 1008. Optionally, the dental caredevice 10 includes a location detection component, such as a GPS (globalpositioning satellite) or other geo-location receiver, for determiningthe location of the dental care device 10.

The sensors 1004 include, for example, one or more breath sensors,thermal radiation sensors, bacteria detection sensors, ambienttemperature sensors, humidity sensors, IR sensors, presence sensors(e.g., using RFID sensors), ambient light sensors, motion detectors,accelerometers, and/or gyroscopes.

The communication interface(s) 1026 enable the dental care device 10 tocommunicate with other devices. In some implementations, thecommunication interface(s) 1026 are capable of data communications usingany of a variety of custom or standard wireless protocols (e.g., IEEE802.15.4, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, 6LoWPAN, Thread, Z-Wave, Bluetooth Smart,ISA100.11a, WirelessHART, MiWi, etc.) custom or standard wired protocols(e.g., Ethernet, HomePlug, etc.), and/or any other suitablecommunication protocol, including communication protocols not yetdeveloped as of the filing date of this document. In some embodiments,the communication interface(s) 1026 includes one or more antennas 1028configured for data communications using any of a variety of custom orstandard protocols (e.g., the protocols listed above). In someembodiments, the communication interface(s) 1026 includes an identitycomponent 1029 configured to transmit (e.g., broadcast) an identifierfor the dental care device 10 and/or an identifier for a user of thedental care device 10. In some embodiments, the identity component 1029comprises circuitry, memory, and/or software configured for wirelesscommunications (e.g., using Bluetooth or Internet of Things (IoT)protocols). In some embodiments, the identity component 1029 stores aunique identifier for the dental care device 10.

In accordance with some embodiments, the energy assembly 1020 includesone or more batteries 1022, and optionally, one or more chargingcomponents 1024. In some embodiments, the charging component(s) 1024include one or more components to enable inductive charging.

In accordance with some embodiments, the drive assembly 1016 includesone or more actuators 1018. In some embodiments, the one or moreactuators 1018 comprise one or more piezoelectric actuators and/or oneor more electric motors (e.g., magnetic motors, offset weight motors).In some embodiments, the drive assembly 1016 is configured to generatevibrations in the mouthpiece component 12.

The memory 1030 includes high-speed random access memory, such as DRAM,SRAM, DDR RAM, or other random access solid state memory devices; and,optionally, includes non-volatile memory, such as one or more magneticdisk storage devices, one or more optical disk storage devices, one ormore flash memory devices, or one or more other non-volatile solid statestorage devices. The memory 1030, or alternatively the non-volatilememory within memory 1030, includes a non-transitory computer-readablestorage medium. In some implementations, memory 1030, or thenon-transitory computer-readable storage medium of the memory 1030,stores the following programs, modules, and data structures, or a subsetor superset thereof:

-   -   Operating logic 1032 including procedures for handling various        basic system services and for performing hardware dependent        tasks;    -   Communication module 1034 for connecting to and communicating        with other network devices (e.g., a router that provides        Internet connectivity, networked storage devices, network        routing devices, server system 910, dispenser device 904, etc.)        connected to one or more networks 908 via one or more        communication interfaces 1026 (wired or wireless);    -   Interface module 1036 for detecting one or more user inputs or        interactions and interpreting the detected inputs or        interactions, and for providing and displaying a user interface        in which settings, captured data, and/or other data can be        configured and/or viewed;    -   Drive module 1038 for operating the drive assembly 1016, e.g.,        in accordance with one or more drive profiles 1048;    -   User module 1039 for managing user information, such as user        preferences, user settings, user dental information, user        identifiers, user drive profiles, user dispensing profiles, and        the like (e.g., a HIPPA-compliant module); and    -   Database 1040 storing data associated with the dental care        device, including, but not limited to:        -   User database 1042 storing information related to user            accounts for the dental care device, such as user settings            1044 (e.g., user interface settings and display            preferences), user dental information, cached login            credentials, device identifiers (e.g., MAC addresses and            UUIDs), authentication tokens and tags, password keys, etc.;            and        -   Device information 1046 storing information related to the            dental care device 10 and, optionally, associated devices            such as dispenser device 904 and user device 906, including            one or more drive profiles 1048 associated with user(s) of            the dental care device.

Each of the above identified elements may be stored in one or more ofthe previously mentioned memory devices, and corresponds to a set ofinstructions for performing a function described above. The aboveidentified modules or programs (i.e., sets of instructions) need not beimplemented as separate software programs, procedures, or modules, andthus various subsets of these modules may be combined or otherwisere-arranged in various implementations. In some implementations, thememory 1030, optionally, stores a subset of the modules and datastructures identified above. Furthermore, the memory 1030, optionally,stores additional modules and data structures not described above, suchas a charging module configured to operate the energy assembly 1020.

In some embodiments, one or more of the components shown in FIG. 10A arelocated within a stand (or mount) of the dental care device 10. Forexample, one or more of the components are arranged within the stand 18(FIG. 1A). In some embodiments, one or more elements of the userinterface(s) 1006 are positioned on the stand (e.g., user interface 20,FIG. 1A). In some embodiments, one or more of the components shown inFIG. 10A are located within a housing of the dental care device 10(e.g., within the base unit 750 or the housing 815).

FIG. 10B is a graphical view illustrating example drive profiles 1048for use with the dental care device of FIG. 10A in accordance with someembodiments. The drive profiles 1048-1 and 1048-2 illustrate two exampleprofiles (e.g., constructed for two different people based each user'sdental details). In some embodiments, the frequencies and timing for thedrive profile 1048 are adjusted for each user based on the user's dentalhealth, teeth geometry, age, and the like. In some embodiments, thefrequencies include one or more sonic frequencies and/or one or moreultrasonic frequencies.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating an oral care agent dispenserdevice 904 in accordance with some embodiments. In some implementations,the dispenser device 904 includes one or more processors (e.g., CPUs,ASICs, FPGAs, microprocessors, and the like) 1102, one or morecommunication interfaces 1126, memory 1130, energy assembly 1120, driveassembly 1116, user interface(s) 1106, sensor(s) 1104, and one or morecommunication buses 1129 for interconnecting these components (sometimescalled a chipset). In some implementations, the user interface(s) 1106includes one or more output devices that enable presentation of mediacontent, including one or more LED(s) 1110, one or more speakers 1114,and/or one or more visual displays. In some implementations, the userinterface(s) 1106 also includes one or more input devices, includinguser interface components that facilitate user input such as avoice-command input unit or microphone 1112, a touch screen display, atouch-sensitive input pad, a gesture capturing camera, or other inputbuttons or controls 1108. Optionally, the dispenser device 904 includesa location detection component, such as a GPS (global positioningsatellite) or other geo-location receiver, for determining the locationof the dispenser device 904 (e.g., for use with ordering oral care agentingredients).

The sensors 1104 include, for example, thermal radiation sensors,ambient temperature sensors, humidity sensors, IR sensors, presencesensors (e.g., using RFID sensors, barcode readers, passive infrared(PIR) sensors), ambient light sensors, motion detectors, accelerometers,and/or gyroscopes.

The communication interface(s) 1126 enable the dispenser device 904 tocommunicate with other devices (e.g., dental care devices 10). In someimplementations, the communication interface(s) 1126 are capable of datacommunications using any of a variety of custom or standard wirelessprotocols (e.g., IEEE 802.15.4, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, 6LoWPAN, Thread, Z-Wave,Bluetooth Smart, ISA100.11a, WirelessHART, MiWi, etc.) custom orstandard wired protocols (e.g., Ethernet, HomePlug, etc.), and/or anyother suitable communication protocol, including communication protocolsnot yet developed as of the filing date of this document. In someembodiments, the communication interface(s) 1126 includes one or moreantennas 1128 configured for data communications using any of a varietyof custom or standard protocols (e.g., the protocols listed above). Insome embodiments, the communication interface(s) 1126 includes anidentity component 1129 configured to transmit (e.g., broadcast) anidentifier for the dispenser device 904 and/or an identifier for a userof the dispenser device. In some embodiments, the identity component1129 comprises circuitry, memory, and/or software configured forwireless communications (e.g., using Bluetooth or Internet of Things(IoT) protocols). In some embodiments, the identity component 1129stores a unique identifier for the dispenser device 904.

In accordance with some embodiments, the energy assembly 1120 optionallyincludes one or more batteries 1022, and one or more charging components1024 (e.g., for coupling to an AC adapter). In some embodiments, thecharging component(s) 1024 include one or more components to enableinductive charging for a dental care device.

In accordance with some embodiments, the drive assembly 1116 includesone or more actuators 1118. In some embodiments, the one or moreactuators 1118 comprise one or more piezoelectric actuators and/or oneor more electric motors. In some embodiments, the drive assembly 1116 isconfigured to combine and dispense toothpaste or oral care agentingredients (e.g., in accordance with a dispensing profile 1148).

The memory 1130 includes high-speed random access memory, such as DRAM,SRAM, DDR RAM, or other random access solid state memory devices; and,optionally, includes non-volatile memory, such as one or more magneticdisk storage devices, one or more optical disk storage devices, one ormore flash memory devices, or one or more other non-volatile solid statestorage devices. The memory 1130, or alternatively the non-volatilememory within memory 1130, includes a non-transitory computer-readablestorage medium. In some implementations, memory 1130, or thenon-transitory computer-readable storage medium of the memory 1130,stores the following programs, modules, and data structures, or a subsetor superset thereof:

-   -   Operating logic 1132 including procedures for handling various        basic system services and for performing hardware dependent        tasks;    -   Communication module 1134 for connecting to and communicating        with other network devices (e.g., a router that provides        Internet connectivity, networked storage devices, network        routing devices, server system 910, dental care device 10,        dental care device 100, etc.) connected to one or more networks        908 via communication interface(s) 1126 (wired or wireless);    -   Interface module 1136 for detecting one or more user inputs or        interactions and interpreting the detected inputs or        interactions, and for providing and displaying a user interface        in which settings, captured data, and/or other data can be        configured and/or viewed;    -   Dispensing module 1138 for operating the drive assembly 1116,        e.g., in accordance with one or more dispensing profiles 1148;    -   User module 1139 for managing user information, such as user        preferences, user settings, user dental information, user        identifiers, user drive profiles, user dispensing profiles, and        the like (e.g., a HIPPA-compliant module); and    -   Database 1140 storing data associated with the dental care        device, including, but not limited to:        -   User database 1142 storing information related to user            accounts for the dental care device, such as user settings            1144 (e.g., user interface settings and display            preferences), user dental information, cached login            credentials, device identifiers (e.g., MAC addresses and            UUIDs), authentication tokens and tags, password keys, etc.;            and        -   Device information 1146 storing information related to the            dispenser device 904 and, optionally, associated devices            such as dental care device 10, dental care device 100, and            user device 906, including one or more dispensing profiles            1148 associated with user(s) of the dispenser device.

Each of the above identified elements may be stored in one or more ofthe previously mentioned memory devices, and corresponds to a set ofinstructions for performing a function described above. The aboveidentified modules or programs (i.e., sets of instructions) need not beimplemented as separate software programs, procedures, or modules, andthus various subsets of these modules may be combined or otherwisere-arranged in various implementations. In some implementations, thememory 1130, optionally, stores a subset of the modules and datastructures identified above. Furthermore, the memory 1130, optionally,stores additional modules and data structures not described above, suchas a charging module configured to operate the energy assembly 1120.

FIGS. 12A-12B are block diagrams illustrating a server system 910 inaccordance with some embodiments. In some implementations, the serversystem 910 includes one or more processors (e.g., CPUs, ASICs, FPGAs,microprocessors, and the like) 1102, one or more network interfaces1204, memory 1208, and one or more communication buses 1206 forinterconnecting these components (sometimes called a chipset). In someimplementations, the server system 910 includes one or more the userinterface(s) includes one or more output devices and/or one or moreinput devices.

The network interface(s) 1204 enable the server system 910 tocommunicate with other devices (e.g., dental care devices 10 and/ordispenser device 904). In some implementations, the network interface(s)1204 are capable of data communications using any of a variety of customor standard wireless protocols (e.g., IEEE 802.15.4, Wi-Fi, ZigBee,6LoWPAN, Thread, Z-Wave, Bluetooth Smart, ISA100.11a, WirelessHART,MiWi, etc.) custom or standard wired protocols (e.g., Ethernet,HomePlug, etc.), and/or any other suitable communication protocol,including communication protocols not yet developed as of the filingdate of this document.

The memory 1208 includes high-speed random access memory, such as DRAM,SRAM, DDR RAM, or other random access solid state memory devices; and,optionally, includes non-volatile memory, such as one or more magneticdisk storage devices, one or more optical disk storage devices, one ormore flash memory devices, or one or more other non-volatile solid statestorage devices. The memory 1208, or alternatively the non-volatilememory within memory 1208, includes a non-transitory computer-readablestorage medium. In some implementations, memory 1208, or thenon-transitory computer-readable storage medium of the memory 1208,stores the following programs, modules, and data structures, or a subsetor superset thereof:

-   -   Operating system 1210 including procedures for handling various        basic system services and for performing hardware dependent        tasks;    -   Network communication module 1212 for connecting the server        system 910 to other systems and devices (e.g., client devices,        dental care devices, dispenser devices, electronic devices, and        systems connected to one or more networks 908) via one or more        network interfaces 1204 (wired or wireless);    -   Device management module 1214 for managing a plurality of dental        care devices (e.g., dental care device 10 and/or dental care        device 100), dispenser devices 904, and/or other user devices        (e.g., associated mobile devices), including sending, receiving,        and processing data from the devices;    -   Third-party management module 1214 for managing associated        third-parties, such as third-party dental health providers 918        and third-party dental suppliers 96, including sending,        receiving, and processing data from the third-party devices;    -   User module 1213 for managing user information, such as user        preferences, user settings, user dental information, user        identifiers, user drive profiles, user dispensing profiles, and        the like (e.g., a HIPPA-compliant module); and    -   Server database 1216, including but not limited to:        -   Accounts information 1218 for storing account information            for user accounts, including user profiles 1220, user            account information, information and settings for linked            devices and electronic devices (e.g., device            identifications), device specific secrets, relevant user and            hardware characteristics (e.g., service tier, device model,            storage capacity, processing capabilities, etc.), user            interface settings, dental health information, dental            provider information, and the like;        -   Device information 1222 for storing data associated with            each electronic device (e.g., each dental care device 10) of            each user account, as well as data processing models,            processed data results, and other relevant metadata (e.g.,            names of data results, location of electronic device,            duration, settings of the electronic device, etc.)            associated with the data, where (optionally) all or a            portion of the data and/or processing associated with the            dental care device are stored securely, and/or storing            device information related to one or more dental care            devices, e.g., device identifiers and device specific            secrets, independently of whether the corresponding devices            have been associated with any user account; and        -   Inventory information 1224 for storing inventory information            for associated dental care devices, dispenser devices, oral            care agent ingredients, fabrication information and/or            molds.

Each of the above identified elements may be stored in one or more ofthe previously mentioned memory devices, and corresponds to a set ofinstructions for performing a function described above. The aboveidentified modules or programs (i.e., sets of instructions) need not beimplemented as separate software programs, procedures, or modules, andthus various subsets of these modules may be combined or otherwisere-arranged in various implementations. In some implementations, thememory 1208, optionally, stores a subset of the modules and datastructures identified above. Furthermore, the memory 1208, optionally,stores additional modules and data structures not described above.

FIG. 12B illustrates various data structures used by the server system910 in some embodiments, including a user profile 1220-j and a deviceprofile 1222-k. The user profile 1220-j corresponds to a user ‘j’associated with the dental system 900, such as a user of a dental caredevice 10, a user of a dental care device 100, a user of a dispenserdevice 904, and the like. In some embodiments, the user profile 1220-jincludes user preferences 1226, user settings 1228, user dentalinformation 1230, drive profile information 1232, associated devicesinformation 1234, and associated oral care agents information 1236, andassociated dental professionals information 1238. In some embodiments,the user profile 1220-j includes only a subset of the above data. Insome embodiments, the user profile 1220-j includes additional userinformation not shown, such as information regarding other usersassociated with the user ‘j’.

The user preferences 1226 include explicit user preferences input by theuser as well as implicit and/or inferred user preferences determined bythe dental system 900 (e.g., server system 910 and/or dental care device10). In some embodiments, the inferred user preferences are based onhistorical user activity and/or historical activity of other users. Theuser settings 1228 include information regarding settings set by theuser ‘j’ such as notification settings, device settings, and the like.In some embodiments, the user settings 1228 include device settings fordevices associated with the user ‘j’. In some embodiments, the userdental information 1230 includes one or more dental images (e.g., x-raysor visual images), dental records, geometry information for the teethand/or jaw of the user ‘j’. In some embodiments, the drive profileinformation 1232 includes frequency and timing information for operationof dental care devices of the user ‘j’ (e.g., vectors and/or tablesdescribing the drive profiles 1048 illustrated in FIG. 10B).

Associated devices information 1234 includes information regardingdevices associated with the user ‘j’ such as dental care devices,dispenser devices, and/or mobile devices (e.g., mobile devices with anassociated dental application installed thereon). In some embodiments,associated devices information 1234 includes a link, pointer, orreference to a corresponding device profile 1222. Associated oral careagents information 1236 includes information regarding oral care agentsassociated with user ‘j’, such as oral care agent formulations for user‘j’. Associated dental professionals information 1238 includesinformation regarding dental professionals (e.g., dentists and dentalhygienists) associated with user ‘j’.

The device profile 1222-k corresponds to a device ‘k’ associated withthe dental system 900, such as a dental care device, a dispenser device,a mobile device, and the like. In some embodiments, the device profile1222-k includes device settings 1240, associated devices information1242, associated user information 1244, and associated drive profile(s)1246. In some embodiments, the device profile 1222-k includes only asubset of the above data. In some embodiments, the device profile 1222-kincludes additional device information not shown such as informationregarding whether the device is currently active.

Device settings 1240 include information regarding the current settingsof device ‘k’ such as mode of operation information and the like. Insome embodiments, the device settings 1240 are user-specific and are setby respective users of the device ‘k’. Associated devices information1242 includes information regarding other devices associated with device‘k’ such as other devices assigned to a same user as the device ‘k’. Insome embodiments, associated devices information 1242 includes a link,pointer, or reference to a respective device profile 1222 correspondingto the associated device.

Associated user information 1244 includes information regarding usersassociated with the device such as users operating the device, receivingnotifications from the device, users registered with the device, and thelike. In some embodiments, associated user information 1244 includes alink, pointer, or reference to a user profile 1220 corresponding to theassociated user. Associated drive profile(s) 1246 includes informationregarding drive profiles associated with the device ‘k’ and/or users ofthe device.

FIG. 13A is table illustrating example frequencies for variousrepresentative modes of operation of the dental care device of FIG. 10Ain accordance with some embodiments. In the example of FIG. 13A, 300 Hzcorresponds to a flap in-phase mode, 400 Hz corresponds to a flapout-of-phase mode, 500 Hz corresponds to a sweep mode, and 1100 Hzcorresponds to a twist mode. The various modes are described in moredetail in reference to FIGS. 13B-13G.

FIGS. 13B-13G are schematic views illustrating representativevibrational modes of a representative dental care device (e.g., a dentalcare device 10) in accordance with some embodiments. In someembodiments, a structure, such as the mouthpiece assembly 12 (FIG. 1A)and the structure plate (also sometimes called a chassis) 44, isconfigured to have one or more characteristic vibration modes, sometimescalled resonant modes, which occur at respective natural frequencies ofthe structure. For example, a structure can be configured to havecharacteristic modes that respectively occur at the natural frequenciesf1, f2, f3, . . . , fn, where f1 is the fundamental frequency of thefundamental (e.g., lowest-frequency) characteristic mode, and f2−fn arethe frequencies of respective higher-order characteristic modes;although f2−fn can be harmonics of f1, they need not be.

When excited at such a natural frequency by a vibration source such as adrive assembly 1016 (e.g., a motor with an unbalanced weight attached toits spindle), the structure vibrates in a predictable pattern. In someembodiments, the structure is configured to vibrate in a respectivedesired pattern at each of one or more selected natural frequencies.Each pattern depends on physical characteristics of the structure.Examples of such physical characteristics include the dimensions of thestructure, the shape of the structure, the material from which thestructure is formed, the distribution of the structure's mass, and thestiffness of the structure. In some embodiments, different profilesoperate at different frequencies and/or amplitudes. In somecircumstances and embodiments, the different frequencies change thelocation and amount of the motion as it gets near resonance points. Insome embodiments, the drive frequency changes during a cleaning cycle inaccordance with a preset drive profile.

In some embodiments, the one or more of such physical characteristics ofthe chassis 44 are selected so as to configure the chassis, and thus themouthpiece assembly 12, to vibrate in a respective desired pattern ateach of one or more selected frequencies, where each characteristicvibration mode corresponds to a respective cleaning mode of theteeth-cleaning device 14, e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 13A.

Referring to FIG. 13B, while the chassis 44 is operating in a firstcharacteristic mode 50 corresponding to a frequency f1, the chassis arms46 and 48 oscillate, e.g., flap up and down in-phase, and thus impart anin-phase up-and-down flapping motion to the upper and lower mouthpieces40 and 42, in response to a first excitation frequency (e.g., from theone or more actuators in the electronics enclosure 16). As used herein,“in-phase” means that the front edges 51 and 53 of the chassis arms 46and 48, respectively, have approximately the same z-axis coordinate atany given time. In some embodiments, the frequency f1 is in anapproximate range of 90-400 Hz, and the excitation frequency generatedby the one or more motors is approximately equal to f1. When theexcitation frequency does not equal f1, then the arms 46 and 48 of thechassis 44, and thus the mouthpiece assembly 12, may flap up and down atthe excitation frequency.

Referring to FIG. 13C, while the chassis 44 is operating in a secondcharacteristic mode 52 corresponding to a frequency f2, the arms 46 and48 oscillate, e.g., flap up and down out-of-phase, and thus impart anout-of-phase up-and-down flapping motion to the upper and lowermouthpieces 40 and 42, in response to a second excitation frequency fromthe one or more motors in the electronics enclosure 16. As used herein,“out-of-phase” means that the front edges 51 and 53 of the arms 46 and48 at any given time have approximately the same value but a differentsign. For example, at a time ‘t’ the front edge 51 of the arm 46 canhave a z-coordinate of approximately +1 and the front edge 53 of the arm48 can have a z-coordinate of approximately −1. In some embodiments, thefrequency f2 is in an approximate range of 180-500 Hz and can be aharmonic of f1 (although this is not required), and the excitationfrequency generated by the one or more motors is approximately equal tof2. When the excitation frequency does not equal f2, then the arms 46and 48 of the chassis 44, and thus the mouthpiece assembly 12, may flapup and down at the excitation frequency.

Referring to FIG. 13D, while the chassis 44 is operating in a thirdcharacteristic mode 54 that occurs at a frequency f3, the arms 46 and 48sweep toward and away from each other in the x-dimension out of phase,and thus impart an out-of-phase sweeping motion to the upper and lowermouthpieces 40 and 42, in response to a third excitation frequency fromthe one or more motors in the electronics enclosure 16. In this example,out-of-phase means that corresponding points on the inner edges 56 and58 of the arms 46 and 48 at any given time have approximately the samedisplacement in the x-dimension but with a different sign. For example,at a time ‘t’ the point of the edge 56 has a displacement in thex-dimension of approximately +1 and the corresponding point of the edge58 has a displacement in the x-dimension of approximately −1.Corresponding points of the outer edges 60 and 62 of the chassis arms 44and 46 are likewise out-of-phase. In some embodiments, the frequency f3is in an approximate range of 270-600 Hz and can be a harmonic of f1(although this is not required), and the excitation frequency generatedby the one or more motors is approximately equal to f3. When theexcitation frequency does not equal f3, then the arms 46 and 48 of thechassis 44, and thus the mouthpiece assembly 12, may sweep back andforth at the excitation frequency.

Referring to FIG. 13E, while the chassis 44 is operating in a fourthcharacteristic mode 64 that corresponds to a frequency f4, the chassisarms 46 and 48 sweep in the x-dimension in phase with one another, andthus impart an in-phase sweeping motion to the upper and lowermouthpieces 40 and 42, in response to a fourth excitation frequency fromthe one or more motors in the electronics enclosure 16. In this example,in-phase means that corresponding points of the inner edges 56 and 58 ofthe arms 44 and 46 at any given time have approximately the samedisplacement in the x-dimension with a same sign. For example, at a time‘t’ point of the edge 56 has a displacement in the x-dimension ofapproximately +1 and a corresponding point of the edge 58 also has adisplacement in the x-dimension of approximately +1. Correspondingpoints of the outer edges 60 and 62 of the chassis arms 46 and 48 arelikewise in-phase. In some embodiments, the frequency f4 is in anapproximate range of 360-700 Hz and can be a harmonic of f1 (althoughthis is not required), and the excitation frequency generated by the oneor more motors is approximately equal to f4. When the excitationfrequency does not equal f4, then the arms 46 and 48 of the chassis 44,and thus the mouthpiece assembly 12, may sweep back and forth at theexcitation frequency.

Referring to FIG. 13F, while the chassis 44 is operating in a fifthcharacteristic mode 66 that corresponds to a frequency f5, the arms 46and 48 twist about respective axes 68 and 70 in-phase, and thus impartan in-phase twisting motion to the upper and lower mouthpieces 40 and42, in response to a fifth excitation frequency from the one or moremotors in the electronics enclosure 16. In this example, in-phase meansthat the z-coordinates of corresponding points of the inner edges 56 and58 of the arms 46 and 48 at any given time have approximately the samevalue and same sign. For example, at a time T a point of the edge 56 hasa z-coordinate of approximately +1 and a corresponding point of the edge58 also has a z-coordinate of approximately +1. Corresponding points ofthe outer edges 60 and 62 of the chassis arms 46 and 48 are likewisein-phase. In some embodiments, the frequency f5 is in an approximaterange of 810-1200 Hz and can be a harmonic of f1 (although this is notrequired), and the excitation frequency generated by the one or moremotors is approximately equal to fs. If the excitation frequency doesnot equal fs, then the arms 46 and 48 of the chassis 44, and thus themouthpiece assembly 12, may twist at the excitation frequency.

Referring to FIG. 13G, while the chassis 44 is operating in a sixthcharacteristic mode 72 that corresponds to a frequency f6, the chassisarms 46 and 48 twist about the respective axes 68 and 70 out-of-phase,and thus impart an out-of-phase twisting motion to the upper and lowermouthpieces 40 and 42, in response to a sixth excitation frequency fromthe one or more motors in the electronics enclosure 16. In this example,out-of-phase means that the z-coordinates of corresponding points of theinner edges 56 and 58 of the chassis arms 46 and 48 at any given timehave approximately the same value and different sign. For example, at atime ‘t’ point of the edge 56 has a z-coordinate of approximately +1 anda corresponding point of the edge 58 has a z-coordinate of approximately−1. Corresponding points of the outer edges 60 and 62 of the chassisarms 46 and 48 are likewise out-of-phase. In some embodiments, thefrequency f6 is in an approximate range of 900-1300 Hz and can be aharmonic of f1 (although this is not required), and the excitationfrequency generated by the one or more motors is approximately equal tof6. When the excitation frequency does not equal f6, then the arms 46and 48 of the chassis 44, and thus the mouthpiece assembly 12, may twistat the excitation frequency.

Referring to FIGS. 13A-13G, in some embodiments, the teeth cleaningdevice 14 is configured such that the electronic circuitry sweeps thechassis 44, and thus the mouthpiece assembly 12 through multiplecleaning modes by changing, at respective configurable times relative toa start time, the excitation frequency generated by the one or moremotors in the electronics enclosure 16, e.g., in accordance with a driveprofile 1048. In some embodiments, the electronics enclosure 16 includesa button or other input device that enables a user to manually selectthe cleaning mode, or to manually step through a sequence for which theteeth cleaning device 14 is configured.

In some embodiments, the device 14 is capable of operating in one ormore cleaning modes not described in conjunction with FIGS. 13A-13G(e.g., vibration of the center of the mouthpiece assembly 12 rather thanthe ends). In some circumstances, the natural-frequency range for one ormore of the modes can be different than described. In some embodiments,the above-described modes are ordered differently relative to naturalfrequency (e.g., the twist modes have lower natural frequencies than thesweep or flap modes).

In some embodiments, the mouthpiece assembly 12 is configured to takeinto account physical characteristics (e.g., mass) of the elasticpolymer such that the cleaning modes have desired characteristics. Insome embodiments, the chassis 44 is configured to have modes that arecustom tailored for a particular person. In some embodiments, thechassis 44 is formed via an automated process, for example, usingcomputer-aided design tools. In some embodiments, electronic circuitryin the electronics enclosure 16 (e.g., drive assembly 1016) isconfigured to drive the one or more motors to induce multiplecharacteristic modes simultaneously.

Although the natural frequency ranges of the characteristic modes aredescribed as being in the sonic frequency range (e.g., <20 KHz) inreference to FIGS. 13A-13G, in some embodiments, one or more of thecharacteristic modes have a respective fundamental frequency in theultrasonic frequency range (e.g., >20 KHz), or have one or morefrequency components (e.g., fundamental and harmonics) in the sonicfrequency range and one or more other frequency components in theultrasonic frequency range. Having at least one characteristic mode withat least one frequency component in the ultrasonic frequency range canfacilitate removal of plaque from the teeth, and from other parts of themouth, as described above.

In some embodiments, the characteristic modes, excitation frequencies ofthe characteristic modes, and the sequence of characteristic modesthrough which the teeth cleaning device 14 proceeds are customized for auser (e.g., in accordance with a customized drive profile).

For example, a user can use the teeth cleaning device 14 with initialmode and sequence settings for a period of time (e.g., three months) andgo to the dentist for a checkup, and the dentist can modify the settingsif the dentist thinks that the cleaning efficacy of the teeth cleaningdevice can be improved for the person. The user and dentist can repeatthe checkup-and-setting-modification procedure as many times as thedentist or user believes is necessary to maximize the cleaning efficacyof the teeth cleaning device 14 for the person. Alternatively, thecheckup-and-setting-modification procedure can occur via theinternet/cloud. For example, instead of visiting the dentist, the usercan take photographs of his/her mouth and teeth with the teeth cleaningdevice 14 or with another device (e.g., a smart phone) and upload thephotographs to the dentist, who can modify the settings of the teethcleaning device via the internet/cloud. Or the user or teeth cleaningdevice 14 can capture information other than, or in addition to,photographic information, where this other information is indicative ofthe cleaning efficacy of the teeth cleaning device, and the user orteeth cleaning device can provide this information to the user's dentistvia the internet/cloud. Where the teeth cleaning device 14 provides suchinformation to the dentist automatically (e.g., via a wireless router inthe user's home), then this checkup-and-setting-modification procedurecan be transparent to the person. And another parameter than the dentistcan modify is the formula of a custom toothpaste, or other oral careagent, that the user uses while cleaning his/her teeth with the teethcleaning device 14.

In some embodiments, characteristics (e.g., density, thickness, shape)of the arms 46 and 48 of the chassis 44 are configured to induce localcomplex modal structures that in turn generate local changes invibration amplitude and speed during one or more characteristic modes.

FIGS. 14A-14B are, respectively, rear and front partially exploded viewsof a dental care device, such as dental care device 10, in accordancewith some embodiments. Referring to FIG. 14A, in accordance with someembodiments, the electronics enclosure 16 includes a cylindrical chamber30, for receiving and housing a drive assembly (e.g., drive assembly1016). In some embodiments, the drive assembly is mounted directly to aprinted circuit board on which the electronic circuitry is mounted.

In some embodiments, the drive assembly includes one or more vibratorymotors configured to cause the mouthpiece assembly 12 to move accordingto one or more vibratory (characteristic) cleaning modes. For example,the spindle of each motor can be fitted with a respective unbalanced(e.g., unevenly distributed radially, circumferentially, or bothradially and circumferentially, relative to spindle) weight that causesthe motor to vibrate sinusoidally at a frequency that is related to theangular velocity wt at which the spindle rotates according to thefollowing equation:R(t)=A sin(wt)  (1)Equation 1—Angular Velocity

where R(t) is the radial displacement of the spindle as a function oftime at a fixed angular location about the spindle. By setting theangular velocities of the motors, electronic circuitry within theelectronics enclosure 16 can set the frequency of R(t), and, therefore,can select the characteristic mode, or characteristic modes, in whichthe mouthpiece assembly 20 operates. Therefore, the tooth-cleaningdevice 14 is configured to have unique characteristics utilizingvibratory-machine dynamics.

Still referring to FIG. 14A, alternate embodiments of the electronicsenclosure 16 are contemplated. For example, the electronics enclosure 16can be configured to house fewer or more than two motors. Furthermore,where the electronics enclosure 16 houses two or more motors, each ofthese motor can have any suitable respective orientation relative to anyof the other motors, even if such suitable respective orientation isother than a parallel orientation. For example, the spindle of one motormay make an angle with the spindle of another motor, where the angle isless than 180°.

Moreover, at least one of the motors can have a different size than oneor more of the other motors. In addition, in at least one cleaning mode,at least one of the motors can operate at a different speed than one ormore of the other motors.

Referring to FIGS. 14A-14B, the mouthpiece assembly 12 includes an uppermouthpiece 40, a lower mouthpiece 42, and a chassis 44 to which theupper and lower mouthpieces are attached or otherwise secured. The uppermouthpiece 40 is designed to clean the upper set, or upper row, of auser's teeth. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece 40 is made from anysuitable material, such as a flexible material like medical/dental-gradesilicone or elastic polymer. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece 40 isdesigned for a custom fit with the upper teeth and maxilla of theperson. In accordance with some embodiments, the upper mouthpiece 40 hasa shaped back surface that is configured for attachment to an upper sideof the chassis 44 in any suitable manner, such as with an adhesive orfasteners. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece assembly 12 is configuredto perform gum massage of both upper and lower gums (e.g., on inner andouter gum lines—mesial and distal). In some circumstances, gum massageresults in increase of circulation in the gums and thus improves gumhealth for the user.

In some embodiments, the lower mouthpiece 42 is designed to clean thelower set, or lower row, of a user's teeth. In some embodiments, themouthpiece 42 is made from any suitable material, such as a flexiblematerial like silicone or elastic polymer. In some embodiments, themouthpiece 42 is designed for a custom fit with the lower teeth andmandible of the person. In accordance with some embodiments, the lowermouthpiece 42 has a shaped back surface that is configured forattachment to a lower side of the chassis 44 in any suitable manner,such as with an adhesive or fasteners.

In accordance with some embodiments, the chassis 44 includes two arms 46and 48, and is coupled to the one or more motors housed in theelectronics enclosure 16 in a manner that allows the one or more motors,when active, to induce one or more characteristic modes in the chassis,and therefore, to induce one or more cleaning modes in the mouthpieceassembly 12. In some embodiments, the chassis 44 is made from anysuitable material such as a polymer, plastic, or a metal, and can haveany suitable shape and dimensions.

In some embodiments, the teeth-cleaning device 14 is configured as asingle integral unit such that components (e.g., the mouthpiece assembly12) of the teeth-cleaning device are not independently replaceable.Therefore, when the device 14 wears out, a user replaces the entiredevice. For example, a single-integral-unit teeth-cleaning device 14 canbe designed to be replaced once every approximately 3-6 months.

In some embodiments, the teeth-cleaning device 14 is configured suchthat one or more of its components are independently replaceable. Forexample, the device 14 can be configured such that the mouthpieceassembly 12 is replaceable. Or, the device 14 can be configured suchthat the upper mouthpiece 40 and the lower mouthpiece 42 areindependently replaceable. For example, the mouthpiece assembly 12, orthe upper and lower mouthpieces, can each be designed to be replacedonce every approximately 3-6 months.

In some embodiments, the teeth-cleaning device 14 is configured toindicate to a user when it is time to replace the device, or one or morecomponents of the device (e.g., the upper and lower mouthpieces 40 and42). In some embodiments, electronic circuitry in the electronicsenclosure 16 counts the number of times that the teeth-cleaning device14 is activated for use by a particular person, compares a count valueto a count threshold, and generates a time-for-replacement indicator(e.g., a sound, a light, a special vibration pattern, an indicatoruploaded to user's smartphone via the cloud) in response to the countvalue equaling or exceeding the threshold. In some embodiments, theelectronic circuitry is configured to generate a time-for-replacementwarning (e.g., a sound, a light, a special vibration pattern, anindicator uploaded to user's smartphone via the cloud) in response tothe difference between the count value and the count threshold beingless than or equal to a difference threshold. In some embodiments, theelectronic circuitry is configured to generate a cloud order (e.g., viaa smart phone or mobile device communicatively linked to the device 14)for a replacement mouth piece 40 or 42, or a replacement mouthpieceassembly 12, so that the user will have received the replacement by thetime that the mouthpiece 40 or 42, or the mouthpiece assembly 12, isready to be replaced. In some embodiments, at least one of the upper andlower mouthpieces 40 and 42 is configured to exhibit a particular wearpattern (e.g., changing colors) to notify a user when it is time toreplace the device 14 or one or more components thereof. In someembodiments, the device 14 is configured to use any other suitabletechnique for determining when it is time to replace the device or acomponent thereof, and for indicating the same to a person.

In some embodiments, the chassis 44 has a wider or narrower width thanthe mouthpieces 40 and 42. In some embodiments, the upper and lowermouthpieces 40 and 42 are formed as an integral mouthpiece unit having apocket configured to receive the chassis such that the mouthpiece unitcan be slipped onto the chassis.

FIGS. 15A-15D are schematic views of a representative dental care devicein accordance with some embodiments. In accordance with someembodiments, the upper mouthpiece 40 includes cleaning tips 80, whichare configured to contact a user's teeth and to scrub away substances(e.g., plaque, tartar, food particles, food residue, stains, bacteria,viruses) from the surfaces of the user's teeth during operation of theteeth-cleaning device 14 (e.g., while the one or more motors in theelectronics enclosure 16 are driving the mouthpiece assembly 12 in acleaning mode).

In accordance with some embodiments, the lower mouthpiece 42 alsoincludes cleaning tips 80. In accordance with some embodiments, thecleaning tips 80 protrude from the inner walls of the mouthpieces 40 and42, and are integral with the respective mouthpieces. In someembodiments, the cleaning tips 80 are formed from any suitable material,such as silicone or elastic polymer. In some embodiments, one or more ofthe cleaning tips are attached to, or otherwise secured to, therespective mouthpiece. For example, a hole can be formed in a wall of amouthpiece, and a cleaning tip 80 can be installed in the hole. Thecleaning tips 80 can be similar to the conventional bristles of aconventional toothbrush, but, as described below, the cleaning tips canbe significantly different from conventional bristles.

Each cleaning tip 80 may have any dimensions, shape, and othercharacteristics suitable for cleaning teeth. In some embodiments, thecleaning tips 80 are custom configured for a particular user's dentition(e.g., teeth and jaw geometry). In some embodiments, the cleaning tips80 in one location have different sizes or different shapes from thecleaning tips in another location, and/or the cleaning tips in onelocation are configured to vibrate, or otherwise to move, differentlyduring a cleaning mode than the cleaning tips in another location. Insome embodiments, one or more of the cleaning tips 80 have a shape thatincludes a paddle, circular, tubular, fin-like, conical, trapezoidal,and pyramid. The cleaning tips 80 are optionally solid or partiallyhollow. For example, a cleaning tip 80 can be a solid protrusion or ahollow protrusion of the surface of a respective one of the mouthpieces40 and 42.

In some embodiments, the surface of a cleaning tip 80 is an extension ofthe surface of a respective one of the mouthpieces 40 and 42. In someembodiments, cleaning tips 80 configured for extending between two of auser's teeth are elongated, and different cleaning tips are configuredfor vibrating at different speeds and amplitudes as a function of toothtype and tooth surface. In some embodiments, the cleaning tips 80 andother characteristics (e.g., the local stiffness) of the mouthpieces 40and 42, and the characteristic modes of the teeth-cleaning device 14,are configured to provide vibration patterns that produce superiorcleaning of each one of a user's teeth.

The operation of the teeth-cleaning device 14 is described below,according to some embodiments. First, a user grasps the electronicsenclosure 16 with his/her hand or fingertips, and inserts the mouthpieceassembly 12 into his/her mouth with the upper mouthpiece 40 facingupward and the lower mouthpiece 42 facing downward. Before inserting themouthpiece assembly 12 into his/her mouth, the user optionally dispensestoothpaste, or another oral care agent, inside of the troughs formed bythe upper and lower mouthpieces 40 and 42. Next, the user gently bitesdown on the mouthpiece assembly 12 to seat the upper mouthpiece 40 andthe lower mouthpiece 42 with his/her upper and lower sets of teeth,respectively. Then, the user activates the teeth-cleaning device 14, forexample, by pressing a button on the electronics enclosure 16. Afteractiving the device 14, the user can continue to hold the electronicsenclosure 16, or can let go of the electronics enclosure such that theuser holds the device in position solely with his/her mouth.

In this example, in response to the user activating the teeth-cleaningdevice 14, electronic circuitry in the electronics enclosure 16activates the one or more motors in the electronics enclosure and causesthe motors to excite the mouthpiece assembly 12 at a frequency f1, whichcauses the mouthpiece assembly to move according to a first cleaningmode. Next, after a set time that is optionally configurable (e.g., byprogramming the time into the teeth-cleaning device's electroniccircuitry), the electronic circuitry in the electronics enclosure 16causes the one or more motors in the electronics enclosure 16 to excitethe mouthpiece assembly 12 at a frequency f2, which causes themouthpiece assembly to move according to a second cleaning mode.

In this example, the electronic circuitry in the electronics enclosure16 continues stepping through the cleaning modes (if there are more thantwo cleaning modes) until it has cycled through all of the cleaningmodes in the cycle, which can be programmed into the teeth-cleaningdevice's electronic circuitry. Then, the electronic circuitry in theelectronics enclosure 16 automatically deactivates the teeth-cleaningdevice 14 such that the device ceases movement. Next, the userrecognizes the cessation of movement of the teeth-cleaning device 14 asthe end of the cleaning cycle, and removes the device from his/hermouth. The device is effectively automatically cleaning the dentitionwithout any need of direct user intervention.

In some embodiments, the electronics enclosure 16 is made long enoughfor a user to grasp with his/her hand like the user would a conventionaltoothbrush handle. In some embodiments, the electronic circuitry in theelectronics enclosure 16 activates a particular cleaning mode more thanonce during a cleaning cycle. In some embodiments, the electroniccircuitry in the electronics enclosure 16 activates the cleaning modesin an order other than from lowest mode frequency to highest modefrequency.

In some embodiments, a healthcare professional prescribes a customizecleaning cycle (e.g., the number, type, order, and duration of thecleaning modes, the time delays between consecutive cleaning modes, andthe total cycle time) for a user based on, for example, dentalcharacteristics and/or preferences of the person. Examples of suchcharacteristics include the contours of the user's teeth, the user'sdiet, the chemistry of the user's mouth, the user's dental history, andthe user's health history. Furthermore, although described as beingprotruding only from the inner walls of the upper and lower mouthpieces40 and 42, the cleaning tips 80 can protrude from one or more outerwalls of one or both of the mouthpieces.

In some embodiments, at least some of the cleaning tips 80 areconfigured to clean, or to stimulate (e.g., massage), other parts of theuser's mouth such as the gums, tongue, and cheeks. In some embodiments,the teeth-cleaning device 14 is configured to provide water, or anotherliquid (such as mouthwash), out of one or more of the cleaning tips 80.

FIG. 16A is a close-up view of the cleaning tips 80 of the uppermouthpiece 40 in accordance with some embodiments. FIG. 16B is aclose-up view of the cleaning tips 80 engaging a user's teeth 90 inaccordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, the cleaning tips80 are configured to have different lengths such that as a group, thecleaning tips follow the contours of a user's teeth 90. Suchcustom-length cleaning tips 80 can provide faster, and overall better,cleaning compared to cleaning tips having a uniform size. In someembodiments, cleaning tips 80 that are near spaces between a user'steeth are configured to have lengths long enough to extend, and toclean, between teeth. In some embodiments, cleaning tips 80 that arenear a user's gum line (e.g., where the gum ends and the teeth areexposed) are configured to have lengths long enough to extend, and toclean, below the gum line.

In some embodiments, characteristics of the cleaning tips 80 other thanlength are customized for a particular person. Examples of suchcharacteristics include width, height, shape, stiffness, material fromwhich the cleaning tips are made, and pitch between adjacent cleaningtips.

In accordance with some embodiments, fabrication of the cleaning device14 is now described. First, one generates an electronicthree-dimensional (3-D) representation of a user's teeth (and optionallyother parts of the user's mouth such as gums, cheek, and tongue). Insome embodiments, the user, a dentist, or other dental professional,scans the user's teeth with a 3-D scanner. In some embodiments, theuser, a dentist, or other dental professional, takes an impression ofthe user's teeth, and sends the impression to a facility that scans theimpression to generate a corresponding electronic 3-D representation ofthe user's teeth. In some embodiments, the user takes the impressionusing a do-it-yourself impression kit, and sends the impression to afacility that scans the impression to generate a correspondingelectronic 3-D representation of the user's teeth.

Next, the 3-D representation of the user's teeth is provided to acomputer having circuitry configured to analyze the representation, andto generate, in response to the analysis, a 3-D representation of themouthpieces 40 and 42 (or optionally of the entire mouthpiece assembly12). For example, the computer can be a cloud server to which oneuploads the 30 representation of the user's teeth in a suitable format.

Then, the computer circuitry, which is configured to execute software,is configured by firmware, or is configured by firmware and to executesoftware, analyzes the 3-D representation and, in response to thisanalysis, generates a 3-D representation of at least the upper and lowermouthpieces 40 and 42, and, optionally, of the entire mouthpieceassembly 12 (e.g., combination of the mouthpieces and the chassis 44).For example, the computer circuitry can determine the shapes and othercharacteristics (e.g., local thickness, local stiffness, local density)of the upper and lower mouth pieces 40 and 42, the characteristics(e.g., local stiffness, local width, local thickness, local density) ofthe chassis 44, and the lengths, other dimensions, and othercharacteristics (e.g., local shape, local thickness, local stiffness,local density), of the cleaning tips 80 in response to this analysis. Inthis example, ‘local’ means that the value of a respective quantity(e.g., stiffness) in one location of an item (e.g., cleaning tip) can bedifferent from the value of the same quantity in another location of thesame item. For example, a cleaning tip 80 can be thinner at a locationcloser to its base (e.g., where the cleaning tip meets the rest of therespective mouthpiece 40 or 42), and can be thicker at a locationfarther from its base.

Next, the computer circuitry optionally displays, or otherwise renders,the 3-D representation of the mouthpieces 40 and 42 (and optionally ofthe entire mouthpiece assembly 12) to enable a dentist, or other dentalprofessional, to make revisions to the 3-D representation. For example,a dentist can add one or more extra cleaning tips 80 to a region of amouthpiece corresponding to a region of the user's teeth thathistorically has experienced heavy tartar buildup.

Then, the computer circuitry converts the 3-D representation of themouthpieces 40 and 42 (and optionally of the entire mouthpiece assembly12) into a file suitable for a machine that is configured to form themouthpieces (or the entire mouthpiece assembly). An example of such amachine is a 3-D printer, which may be located in a manufacturingfacility or in a user's home. Another example of such a machine is aninjection-molding machine. Alternately, the 3-D printer can print a moldfrom which the mouthpieces can be cast using traditional technologiessuch as injection-molding, liquid-silicone rubber molding, or similarcasting approaches.

Next, the machine forms the mouthpieces 40 and 42 (or optionally theentire mouthpiece assembly 12) such that, in some embodiments, theformed mouthpieces 40 and 42 are personalized/customized to the user'steeth, to one or more other parts of the user's mouth, and to the user'sjaw structure. In the cases where the machine is remote from the user,the formed mouthpieces or mouthpiece assembly is sent to the user via,e.g., mail.

In some embodiments, based on an analysis of the 3-D representation of auser's teeth, the computer circuitry and/or a dental professionaldetermines a custom cleaning cycle (e.g., a drive profile and/ordispensing profile) for the person. In some embodiments, the dental caredevice 10 is configured to operate according to this cycle via, e.g., aninternet connection.

In some embodiments, based on an analysis of the scans, usage, and otheruser/device data, the software automatically predicts and recommendsdental procedures relevant to the user. For example, the softwarepredicts decline in gum health and/or predicts improvement in smile andfacial features if the user does teeth straightening or crowns orveneers.

In some embodiments, the cleaning tips have uniform lengths and othercharacteristics, for example, in a lower-cost version of theteeth-cleaning device 14. In some embodiments, groups of cleaning tips80 are each designed for providing a best cleaning for that group duringa respective one of the above-described characteristic modes. Forexample, for a particular tooth, such as a molar, there can be arespective group of cleaning tips 80 for each characteristic mode, andthe cleaning tips of each group can be distributed, e.g., in ahomogenous manner, with the cleaning tips of the other groups such thatall areas of the molar experience suitable cleaning during eachcharacteristic mode. In some embodiments, as described above, the uppermouthpiece 40 and the cleaning tips 80 associated with the uppermouthpiece are formed as a single, integral unit (e.g., unibodyconstruction), as is the lower mouthpiece 40 and the cleaning tips 80associated with the lower mouthpiece; or, the entire mouthpiece assembly12 (upper and lower mouthpieces 40 and 42 and cleaning tips 80) isformed as a single, integral unit.

In some embodiments, the computer circuitry is configured to determinewhen a part (e.g., the upper mouthpiece 40, the lower mouthpiece 42) ofthe teeth-cleaning device 14 is scheduled for replacement or updating,is failing, or has failed, and is optionally configured to reorder thepart automatically (e.g., via an online reordering portal), alert theuser, and/or alert a dental health provider or supplier. In someembodiments, when the part needs updating (e.g., a mouthpiece needsmodification by a dentist), then an application on a cloud or othercomputer server is configured to take steps (e.g., contact the user'sdentist) to generate an updated part.

FIG. 17 is an exploded schematic view illustrating a dental mold system1702 in accordance with some embodiments. The dental mold system 1702 isconfigured to produce (e.g., fabricate) at least a portion of the dentalcare device 10 (e.g., the mouthpiece assembly 12). The dental moldsystem 1702 includes dental mold plates 1704, dental mold insert molds1706, and a structure plate 1708 (e.g., a chassis 44). In someembodiments, the dental mold plates 1704 are composed of metal. In someembodiments, the dental mold plates 1704 are selected for a particularuser based on the geometry of the user's jaw and/or teeth. For example,smaller dental mold plates 1704 are selected for a child and largerplates are selected for an adult. In some embodiments, the dental moldplates 1704 are selected based on a size of the structure plate 1708and/or the dental mold inserts 1706 (e.g., a larger structure plate 1708requires a larger set of dental mold plates 1704). In some embodiments,the dental mold plates 1704 are configured to secure the dental moldinserts 1706 in place around the structure plate 1708 for molding amouthpiece around the structure plate 1708. In accordance with someembodiments, the dental mold plates 1704 include one or more apertures1710 for injecting a molding substance (e.g., an elastic polymer) intothe dental mold inserts. In some embodiments, the dental mold system1702 includes one or more fasteners for securing the plates to oneanother during fabrication of a portion of the dental care device 10.

In some embodiments, the dental insert molds 1706 are fabricated (e.g.,3-D printed or machined) based on a user's dental information (e.g., thegeometry of the user's jaw and teeth). In some embodiments, the dentalinsert molds are composed of a plastic, metal, or a polymer. In someembodiments, the dental insert molds comprise a plurality of aperturesfor forming the cleaning tips 80 of the mouthpiece assembly.

In some embodiments, the structure plate 1708 is selected for aparticular user based on the geometry of the user's jaw and/or teeth.For example, a smaller structure plate 1708 is selected for a child anda larger plate is selected for an adult. In accordance with someembodiments, the structure plate 1708 includes a connector 1712configured to couple the structure plate 1708 to one or more of thecomponents shown in FIG. 10A (e.g., the drive assembly 1016, the energyassembly 1020, the memory 1030, etc.).

FIGS. 18A-18B are schematic views illustrating dental insert molds 1706in accordance with some embodiments. FIG. 18A shows a front perspectiveview of the dental insert molds 1706. As shown in FIG. 18A, the dentalinsert molds 1706 include a plurality of apertures 1720 for use informing the cleaning tips 80 of the dental care device 10 in accordancewith some embodiments. In some embodiments, each dental insert mold 1706is customized for a particular person, e.g., is fabricated in accordancewith the user's dental information. The custom dental insert molds 1706enable fabrication of custom mouthpiece assemblies and thus customdental care devices 10. In some embodiments, the dental insert molds1706 includes one or more apertures for affixing the dental insert moldsto the mold plates 1704. In some embodiments, the dental insert molds1706 includes one or more apertures for injecting molding material, suchas an elastic polymer.

FIG. 18B shows a cross-sectional view of the dental insert molds 1706encasing a mouthpiece assembly in accordance with some embodiments. Themouthpiece assembly in FIG. 18B includes a structure plate 1708 enclosedin a polymer 1802 having a plurality of cleaning tips 80 in accordancewith some embodiments. In some embodiments, the cleaning tips 80 eachhave a size and shape configured in accordance with a user's dentalinformation, such as the shape and positioning of the user's teeth, thesensitivity of the user's gums, the dental health of the user's teethand gums, and the like.

FIGS. 19A-19C are schematic views illustrating a mouthpiece assembly1902 in accordance with some embodiments. FIG. 19A shows a frontperspective view, FIG. 19B shows a top-down view, and FIG. 19C shows across-sectional view of the mouthpiece assembly 1902. The mouthpieceassembly 1902 includes the connector 1712 configured to couple theassembly 1902 to one or more of the components shown in FIG. 10A (e.g.,the drive assembly 1016, the energy assembly 1020, the memory 1030,etc.). The mouthpiece assembly 1902 also includes a coating 1904 (e.g.,an elastic polymer coating) around a structure plate 1708, the coating1904 including multiple cleaning tips 80.

Accordingly, in some embodiments, a dental care device for cleaningteeth that is customized for a particular user includes: (1) a structureplate (e.g., plate 1708) configured to be inserted into a mouth of auser, where the structure plate includes an attachment tab configured tocouple the dental care device to an external drive assembly; and (2) anupper (elastic polymer) cleaning portion above the structure plate and alower cleaning portion below the structure plate, the upper and lowercleaning portions each including a plurality of cleaning tips (e.g.,cleaning tips 80), where the upper and lower cleaning portions arecustomized in accordance with dental details of a particular user.

In some embodiments, the upper and lower cleaning portions areconfigured to match the teeth and jaw geometry of the particular user.In some embodiments, the upper and lower portions are composed of anelastic polymer (e.g., an elastomer) customized to the particular userbased on the dental information of the particular user. In someembodiments, the elastomer is composed of biocompatible silicone.

In some embodiments, at least one characteristic of the plurality ofcleaning tips is based on the dental details of the particular user(e.g., the stiffness or shape of individual cleaning tips and/orclustering of tips). In some embodiments, a length of the cleaning tipsranges from 0.5 mm to 6 mm. In some embodiments, the cleaning tips havea fin shape, a cylindrical shape with a rounded end, a rectangularshape, etc. In some embodiments, the cleaning tips are tapered. In someembodiments, the dental details are a teeth profile and customization isconforming to teeth profile.

In some embodiments, the dental care device further includes anoperating component including a drive assembly (e.g., drive assembly1016, FIG. 10A), one or more energy sources (e.g., batteries 1022), andcontrol circuitry (e.g., processor(s) 1002). In some embodiments, thedrive assembly includes one or more offset weight motors and/or magneticmotors. In some embodiments, the drive assembly includes one or morepower ports (e.g., USB and/or inductive charging ports). In someembodiments, the dental care device further includes one or moreindicators (e.g., one or more LEDs) configured to indicate a status ofthe device (e.g., needs cleaning, needs charging, needs replaced,operational update available, etc.).

In some embodiments, the drive assembly further includes one or moresensors (e.g., sensor(s) 1004, FIG. 10A) configured to collect dentalinformation of the particular user. In some embodiments, the one or moresensors are configured to obtain breath data for analysis. In someembodiments, the one or more sensors to determine number of device uses.

In some embodiments, the drive assembly is configured to generate avibrational motion for the elastomer portion. In some embodiments, thevibrational motion is configured to improve dental health of the user(e.g., clean teeth, remove plaque, massage gums, etc.). In someembodiments, generating a vibrational motion includes adjusting acurrent and/or voltage supplied to one or more motors of the device.

In some embodiments, the drive assembly further includes memory (e.g.,the memory 1030, FIG. 10A); and the control circuitry is configured togenerate vibration motion in accordance with a drive profile (e.g., adrive profile 1048) stored in the memory.

In some embodiments, the drive profile is based on dental information ofthe particular user. In some embodiments, the drive profile is based onuser preferences and dental health.

In some embodiments, the drive profile includes drive frequency andduration information, e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 10B. In someembodiments, the drive profile is based on one or more characteristicsof the cleaning tips. In some embodiments, the drive profile is based onone or more characteristics an oral care agent assigned to theparticular user. In some embodiments, the drive profile includes acustomized sequence of vibrational frequencies adapted to ensure propercleaning. In some embodiments, the vibrational frequencies include oneor more sonic frequencies and/or one or more ultrasonic frequencies(e.g., as described above with respect to FIGS. 13A-13G).

In some embodiments, the drive assembly further includes communicationcircuitry (e.g., communication interface(s) 1026); and the communicationcircuitry is configured to receive dental information for the particularuser (e.g., receive a drive profile, user preferences, dental healthinformation, etc. from a mobile app). In some embodiments, thecommunication circuitry includes one or more wireless antennas (e.g.,antenna(s) 1028) configured to utilize one or more communicationprotocols (e.g., WiFi, Bluetooth, etc.). In some embodiments, thecommunication circuitry includes one or more communication ports (e.g.,USB ports).

In some embodiments, the communication circuitry is configured totransmit operational data of the dental care device to a remote computersystem (e.g., server system 910, FIG. 9). In some embodiments, thecontrol circuitry collects operational/feedback information for use incustomizing the shape of the elastomer and/or the drive profile for theparticular user. In some embodiments, the operation data is transmittedto a dentist or dental agent of the particular user.

In some embodiments, the dental care device is configured such thatdifferent vibrational frequencies cause different regions of theelastomer portion to vibrate. For example, only a first region vibratesin response to a first frequency and only a second region vibrates inresponse to a second frequency.

In some embodiments, the structure plate is configured to providestructural support to the elastomer portion (e.g., has less flexibility(is stiffer) than the elastomer portion). In some embodiments, the upperand lower portions are configured to extend around surfaces of the teethof the particular user.

FIG. 20A is a perspective view of an oral care agent (e.g., toothpaste)dispenser 904 in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments,the dispenser 904 is a smart device that is programmable, or otherwiseconfigurable, to mix a custom oral care agent formulation from one ormore ingredients, and to dispense, in a hands-free manner, a customamount of custom oral care agent. FIG. 20B is a perspective view of thedispenser device of FIG. 20A with its cover open in accordance with someembodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 20A-20B, in addition to the cover 2006, the dispenser904 includes a user interface 2004 (e.g., an electronics interface), achamber 2016 having cartridge slots 2018, and ingredient cartridges 2020disposed in the cartridge slots. The dispenser 904 further includeselectronic circuitry, as illustrated in FIG. 11, for controlling theoperation and function of the dispenser.

The electronic interface 2004 optionally includes a display 2005 and oneor more buttons 2007. In some embodiments, the display 2005 isconfigured to display a menu, and the buttons 2007 are configured toenable a user to navigate the menu and to select one or more menuchoices or items. For example, if multiple persons (e.g., multiplefamily members) use the dispenser 904, then a user can use one or moreof the button(s) 2007 to navigate the menu and to select, from the menu,his/her name (or other identifier) so as to configure the dispenser todispense his/her previously entered custom formulation and custom amountof oral care agent. In some embodiments, a user is enabled to use one ormore of the button(s) 2007 to navigate the menu to enter/program acustom oral care agent formulation and/or a custom dispense amount. Insome embodiments, a user is enabled use the button(s) 2007 to determinea status of the dispenser 904, such as whether any of the ingredientcartridges 2020 are running low or need to be replaced, or whether anycomponents of the dispenser are malfunctioning.

The cartridge slots 2018 of the chamber 2016 are configured to hold, andto dispense ingredients from, the ingredient cartridges 2020. In someembodiments, the cartridge slots and the ingredient cartridges areanalogous to toner-cartridge slots and toner cartridges of a colorprinter that mixes toner from one or more of the cartridges inprogrammed amounts to create colors of a color palette, and that printsthese colors on print media (e.g., paper). In some embodiments, thedispenser 904 is configured to combine ingredients from one or more ofthe ingredient cartridges 2020 in programmed amounts to create one ormore custom oral care agent formulations, and to dispense these one ormore custom oral care agents onto brush heads of toothbrushes (typicallyone custom oral care agent per brush head).

In some embodiments, the cartridge slots 2018 each include a pumpmechanism that is configured to draw an ingredient out of a respectiveone of the cartridges 2020 into a mixing chamber (not shown in FIGS.20A-20B), in which a mixing mechanism is configured to mix theingredient with other ingredients entering the chamber. In someembodiments, the pump mechanism of each cartridge slot 2018 isconfigured to draw an ingredient out of a respective one of thecartridges 2020 and, together with the pump mechanisms of other activeones of the cartridge slots, to generate a single flow of the combinedingredients, where each cartridge slot regulates a rate of flow of theingredient from the associated cartridge according to an oral care agentformulation. In some embodiments, the pump mechanism of each cartridgeslot 2018 is configured to draw out most, if not all, of the ingredientfrom the corresponding ingredient cartridge so that there is little orno waste of the ingredient. In some embodiments, each cartridge slot2018 includes a needle, or other device, configured to penetrate thecorresponding ingredient cartridge and to form a conduit through whichthe respective pump mechanism draws the ingredient from the cartridge.

The ingredient cartridges 2020 are configured to hold respective oralcare agent ingredients, and to interface with the cartridge slots 2018in a removable manner such that a pump mechanism (or other suitablemechanism) can draw out the respective ingredients from the cartridges.In some embodiments, the cartridge slots are sized or shaped differentlysuch that only a particular type of ingredient cartridge 2020 is enabledto be inserted into a particular cartridge slot 2018. In someembodiments, the cartridge slots are keyed to a particular type ofingredient cartridge 2020 so as track the location of ingredients and toprevent use of improper ingredients in a particular formulation. In someembodiments, the cartridge slots and cartridges are configured to enablea user to replace the cartridges when their ingredients are respectivelyspent. Examples of the ingredients that the ingredient cartridges 2020can hold are, respectively, a tooth-whitening agent (cartridge 2020-2),a mouthwash or a mouth rinse (cartridge 2020-5), a flavoring (cartridges2020-6 and 2020-3), a fluoride compound (cartridge 2020-1), and an oralcare agent base (cartridge 2020-4).

In some embodiments, the dispenser 904 includes more or fewer than sixcartridge slots 2018. In some embodiments, the cartridges 2020 holdingredients other than those described above (e.g., a numbing compoundfor sensitive teeth). In some embodiments, the dispenser 904 does notinclude every ingredient in each of the custom oral care agents that itgenerates.

FIGS. 21A-21B are perspective views of the dispenser device of FIG. 20Awith dental care devices disposed under a dispensing port of thedispenser device in accordance with some embodiments. FIG. 21A shows aconventional toothbrush 2104 with its brush head 2106 under a dispensingport 2102 of the dispenser 904 in accordance with some embodiments. FIG.21B shows a dental care device 10 with its mouthpiece assembly 12 undera dispensing port 2102 of the dispenser 904 in accordance with someembodiments. In some embodiments, the dispenser 904 includes a sensor(e.g., sensor(s) 1104, FIG. 11) that is configured to detect when themouthpiece assembly 12 is in a proper position to receive oral careagent. Examples of such a sensor include an optical sensor and a camera.

In some embodiments, the dispenser 904 includes a sensor (e.g.,sensor(s) 1104, FIG. 11) that is configured to detect when the brushhead 2106 of the toothbrush 2104 (or the brush head of any othertoothbrush) is in a proper position to receive oral care agent. Examplesof such a sensor include an optical sensor, a PIR sensor, a camera, andthe like.

In some embodiments, the sensor is configured, in response to detectingthat the brush head 2106 is in a proper position, to generate a sensorsignal, and to send the sensor signal to electronic circuitry (e.g.,processor(s) 1102) onboard the oral care agent dispenser 904.

In some embodiments, the electronic circuitry is configured, in responseto receiving the sensor signal, to cause the dispenser 904 to generate,and to dispense, a custom amount of custom oral care agent (e.g., inaccordance with a dispensing profile 1148) onto the brush head 2106 ofthe toothbrush 2104. In some embodiments, the electronic circuitry isconfigured to first activate the ingredient-pumping mechanismsassociated with one or more of the cartridge slots 2018, which, whileactivated, draw ingredients out of the corresponding cartridges 2020. Insome embodiments, the electronic circuitry is configured next to cause amixing or other mechanism of the oral care agent dispenser 10 togenerate a set amount of oral care agent according to a set formulation(e.g., a dispensing profile 1148). In some embodiments, the electroniccircuitry is configured then to cause a dispensing or other mechanism ofthe dispenser 904 to dispense the set/custom amount of the custom oralcare agent from the dispensing port 2102 onto the brush head 2106. Insome embodiments, the oral care agent formulation and the amount of oralcare agent to be dispensed are programmable by the user and/or a dentalprofessional.

In some embodiments, the electronic circuitry is configured, in responseto receiving the sensor signal, to cause the dispenser 904 to generate,and to dispense, a custom amount of custom oral care agent onto themouthpiece assembly 12. In some embodiments, the electronic circuitry isconfigured to first activate the ingredient-pumping mechanismsassociated with one or more of the cartridge slots 2018, whichmechanisms, while activated, draw respective ingredients out of thecorresponding cartridges 2020. In some embodiments, the electroniccircuitry is configured next to cause a mixing or other mechanism of thedispenser 904 to generate a set amount of oral care agent according to aset formulation. In some embodiments, the electronic circuitry isconfigured then to cause a dispensing or other mechanism of thedispenser 904 to dispense the set/custom amount of the custom oral careagent from the dispensing port 2102 into the trough of the mouthpieceassembly 12.

In some embodiments, after the oral care agent dispenser 904 dispensesoral care agent into the mouthpiece assembly 12, the user can turn overthe dental care device 10 over and cause the dispenser to dispense acustom amount of custom oral care agent into the opposite side of themouthpiece. In some embodiments, the dispenser 904 is configured todispense different amounts or different oral care agent formulationsonto the opposite sides of the mouthpiece.

In some embodiments, the electronic circuitry onboard the dispenser 904includes communication circuitry configured for wired or wirelesscommunication with a device remote from the dispenser. For example, thedispenser 904 can communicate with a smart phone via a Bluetooth® orWiFi link, and, via the smart phone, can upload and download data, suchas program data, configuration data, and data indicative of the statusof the dispenser.

In some embodiments, using the communication circuitry, the electroniccircuitry notifies a supply server (e.g., a cloud server) automaticallywhen the amount of ingredient in a particular ingredient cartridge isbelow a threshold level, and the server can have a replacement cartridgesent to the user in time to avoid the installed cartridge emptyingbefore the replacement cartridge arrives.

In some embodiments, a dentist or other dental professional candetermine a custom oral care agent formulation based on a user's dentalhistory and other factors (e.g., health, tooth structure, flavorpreference), and provide the formulation to the oral care agentdispenser 904 in a manner that is transparent to the person. Forexample, the dentist or other dental professional can upload theformulation to a cloud server, which can generate configuration datafrom the formulation and can upload the configuration data to thedispenser 904 via the internet, a smart phone or wireless router, andthe dispenser's communication circuitry. The dispenser 904 can thenexecute the configuration data if it is in the form of executableinstructions, or otherwise can configure itself according to theconfiguration data. In some embodiments, in response to the useridentifying him/herself (e.g., by selecting his/her name or identifiervia the menu and buttons on the dispenser) and properly placing histoothbrush or dental care device under the dispensing port 2102, thedispenser 904 generates oral care agent according to the custom amountand custom formulation and dispenses the custom amount of oral careagent onto the brush head 2106 or the mouthpiece assembly 12.

In some embodiments, the dispenser 904 is configured to dispense oralcare agent simultaneously into both sides of the mouthpiece assembly 12.In some embodiments, the dispenser 904 is configured to dispense astandard (non-custom) toothpaste.

In accordance with some embodiments, the dispenser 904 operates asfollows. In some embodiments, upon power up, electronic circuitryonboard the oral care agent dispenser 904 executes a start-up routine.In some embodiments, as part of the start-up routine, the dispenser 904checks its status, determines whether any of its components are notfunctioning properly, and determines whether any of the cartridges 2020are low enough on ingredient to warrant ordering a replacement cartridge(e.g., below a threshold amount or weight). In some embodiments, if theelectronic circuitry determines that any components are not functioningproperly, or that any replacement cartridges need to be ordered, thenthe circuitry uploads such information or reorder to a cloud server viaa wired or wireless link and a device such as a router or smart phone.

In some embodiments, if the cloud server has any configuration files(e.g., corresponding to an oral care agent formulation, a software orfirmware update) for the dispenser 904, then the cloud server notifiesthe dispenser, which downloads the configuration file(s).

In some embodiments, if the electronic circuitry determines that any ofthe cartridges 2020 need replacing, a user opens the cover 2006 andreplaces the one or more cartridges. For example, the electroniccircuitry can cause the display 2005 to display a message indicatingwhich cartridge or cartridges 2020 to replace.

In some embodiments, the user uses the buttons 2007 to navigate a menuon the display 2005 to select the function that the user wants thedispenser 904 to perform. For example, the user can enter an oral careagent formulation, or can enter or select his/her name, or anotheridentifier, to configure the dispenser 904 for dispensing oral careagent in an amount, and having a formulation, that are customized forhim/her.

In some embodiments, the user places the brush head 2106 of a toothbrush2104, or a mouthpiece assembly 12 of a dental care device 10, under thedispenser 2102. In some embodiments, in response to a sensor detectingthat the brush head 2106 or mouthpiece assembly 12 is in the properposition, the dispenser 904 activates the pump assembly (and mixingassembly, if included in the dispenser) to generate and dispense acustom amount of oral care agent having a custom formulation, where thecustom amount and custom formulation correspond to the person. If thedispenser 904 does not activate the pump assembly, then the user mayneed to reposition the brush head 2106 or mouthpiece assembly 12 untilthe user is notified that the position is proper (e.g., hears thedispenser 904 dispensing oral care agent).

In some embodiments, after the dispenser 904 stops dispensing oral careagent, the user removes the brush head 2106 or mouthpiece assembly 12from beneath the dispenser, and cleans his/her teeth.

Accordingly, in some embodiments, oral care agent dispenser device(e.g., dispenser 904) includes: (1) multiple chambers (e.g., cartridgeslots 2018) each configured to receive a cartridge (e.g., cartridges2020) containing a different oral care agent ingredient of a pluralityof oral care agent ingredients; (2) memory (e.g., memory 1130)configured to store an oral care agent formulation that includes one ormore of the plurality of oral care agent ingredients (e.g., a dispensingprofile 1148); and (3) a dispenser positioned above an oral care agentdispensing region, the dispenser configured to dispense one or more ofthe plurality of oral care agent ingredients in accordance with the oralcare agent formulation.

In some embodiments, each cartridge is keyed such that it can only fitinto its corresponding chamber (cartridge slot). In some embodiments,each cartridge is configured for one-time use and the dispenser isconfigured to eject used cartridges into a garbage tray. In someembodiments, the cartridges are configured to be refillable. In someembodiments, each cartridge has a foil seal at one end configured suchthat, when inserted into the dispenser, the foil seal is broken (e.g.,pierced). In some embodiments, each cartridge comprises a syringe andthe dispenser device is configured to move a plunger of the syringe downin set increments to eject oral care agent (e.g., via an actuator 1118).In some embodiments, the dispenser device utilizes a geared servo-motorto drive the plunger at side of syringe. In some embodiments, eachsyringe is pressurize-sealed and the dispense employs a pump with valvesto push a syringe plunger down. In some embodiments, a cartridgecomprises flexible tubing containing the corresponding oral care agentingredient and the dispenser is configured to employ a roller to squeezethe ingredient from the tubing. In some embodiments, the dispenserdevice includes a tortious path mixer for mixing ingredients prior todispensing.

In some embodiments, the plurality of oral care agent ingredientsincludes one or more whitening agents, one or more numbing agents, oneor more flavorings, one or more fluoride compounds, breath freshenercomponents, tartar control components, polishing particulates, and thelike. In some embodiments, the oral care agent formulation is assigned(e.g., prescribed) to a particular user. In some embodiments, the memorystores multiple oral care agent formulations, each for a different user(e.g., a different member of a household).

In some embodiments, the dispenser device further includes communicationcircuitry (e.g., communication interface(s) 1126) configured to receiveoral care agent formulation information (e.g., oral care agentformulation information) for one or more users from a remote source. Insome embodiments, the oral care agent formulation information is adentist prescribed formulation of one or more of the plurality of oralcare agent ingredients.

In some embodiments, the dispenser device is configured to only dispenseprescription-approved material, e.g. prescription fluoride treatment,after identifying the user and/or dental care device.

In some embodiments, the dispenser comprises at least one actuator(e.g., actuator(s) 1118). In some embodiments, the one or moredispensing components includes one or more motors. In some embodiments,the dispenser includes an individual pump for each ingredient. In someembodiments, the dispenser includes a single pump for use with allingredients. In some embodiments, the dispenser includes a liquidreservoir (e.g., a water reservoir) configured to flush undeposited oralcare agent after use. In some embodiments, the dispenser includes aliquid reservoir configured to for mixing with the oral care agentingredients as part of the oral care agent formulation (e.g., to adjustviscosity).

In some embodiments, the dispenser further includes control circuitry(e.g., processor(s) 1102) configured to selectively activate thedispenser. In some embodiments, the dispenser is configured to combinerespective portions of one or more of the plurality of oral care agentingredients into a dispensed oral care agent in accordance with the oralcare agent formulation information; and the control circuitry is furtherconfigured to dispense an amount of the dispensed oral care agent inaccordance with profile information of a user (e.g., a dispensingprofile 1148) stored in the memory. For example, the profile informationincludes information regarding one or more user preferences and/or userdental prescription information.

In some embodiments, the dispenser further includes a user interface2004 configured to present information to a user and receive usercommands. In some embodiments, the user interface includes one or morephysical buttons (e.g., button(s) 1108), microphones (e.g.,microphone(s) 1112), speakers (e.g., speaker(s) 1114), displays, touchscreens, and the like.

In some embodiments, the control circuitry is configured to selectivelyactivate the dispenser in response to a user command received via theuser interface. In some embodiments, the control circuitry is configuredto identify the user who issued the command prior to activing thedispensing components (e.g., to dispense customized oral care agent forthe user). In some embodiments, the dispenser device identifies the uservia an inputted passcode, voice recognition, dental care devicerecognition, and the like.

In some embodiments, the user interface is further configured to receiveone or more user preferences from the particular user. For example,receive one or more flavoring and/or consistency preferences.

In some embodiments, the dispenser further includes one or more sensors(e.g., sensor(s) 1104) configured to determine whether a dental cleaningdevice is present. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors compriseone or more passive infrared (PIR) sensors, barcode readers, near fieldcommunication (NFC) circuitry, and the like. In some embodiments,determining that the dental cleaning device is present comprisesdetermining that the dental cleaning device is positioned to receive theoral care agent dispensed by the dispensing components (e.g., positionedas shown in FIGS. 21A-21B). In some embodiments, the dispenser includesan NFC and/or barcode reader to read unique identifier in toothbrush anddispense a corresponding oral care agent formulation.

In some embodiments, the control circuitry is configured toautomatically dispense one or more of the plurality of oral care agentingredients in response a determination that the dental cleaning deviceis present in the dispensing zone (e.g., that the cleaning device ispositioned under the dispenser output).

In some embodiments, the oral care agent dispenser device is configuredto determine whether one or more of the plurality of oral care agentingredients is below a threshold amount (e.g., will be exhausted within5 days, 7 days, or 15 days). In some embodiments, the device counts anumber of uses to determine if an ingredient is below a threshold amount(low). In some embodiments, the device uses one or more sensors (e.g.,via weight or line-of-sight determinations) to determine if aningredient is low.

In some embodiments, the control circuitry is further configured togenerate a notification for a particular oral care agent ingredient inaccordance with a determination that the particular oral care agentingredient is below a threshold amount. For example, the controlcircuitry is configured to generate a notification to the user via theuser interface or the communication circuitry; and/or generate anotification to a dental provider via the communication circuitry.

In some embodiments, the control circuitry is further configured torequest more of a particular oral care agent ingredient in accordancewith a determination that the particular oral care agent ingredient isbelow a threshold amount (e.g., using the communication circuitry). Insome embodiments, the control circuitry automatically orders more of theingredient from a dental provider (without a specific request from theuser). In some embodiments, the dispenser is configured to wirelesslycommunicate with a user's device (e.g., user device 906) to notify theuser know that an ingredient is running low.

In some embodiments, the communication circuitry is further configuredto communicatively couple the oral care agent dispenser device to adental cleaning device (e.g., a dental care device 10). In someembodiments, the oral care agent formulation information is based inpart on a drive profile received from the dental cleaning device. Insome embodiments, the drive profile is based in part on the oral careagent formulation information. In some embodiments, the dispenser 904,the dental care device 10, or the server system 910 determines a driveprofile for the dental care device 10 based in part on the oral careagent formulation information. In some embodiments, the dispenser 904,the dental care device 10, or the server system 910, determines oralcare agent formulation information based in part on a drive profile fora user of the dental care device 10.

In some embodiments, in response to detecting a mouthpiece assembly 12in position under a dispenser, the dispenser dispenses oral care agentin accordance with the shape of the mouthpiece (e.g., in U-shape). Insome embodiments, the dispenser dispenses oral care agent from top andbottom. In some embodiments, the dispenser moves in a predetermined pathalong the detected brush head or mouthpiece. In some embodiments, thedispenser includes two nozzles, where one nozzle is positioned under themouthpiece and the other nozzle is positioned above the mouthpiece whenthe mouthpiece is in position to receive the oral care agent. In someembodiments, the dispenser includes a nozzle positioned to the right ofthe mouthpiece and/or a nozzle positioned to the left of the mouthpiecewhen the mouthpiece is in position to receive the oral care agent.

In some embodiments, the dispenser device includes a componentconfigured to store a dental care device 10 (e.g., a storage compartmentand/or mount). In some embodiments, the dispenser device is configuredto operate as a base unit 750 (FIGS. 7A-7B) and/or a housing 815 (FIGS.8A-8D). In some embodiments, the dispenser device is configured to havesome or all of the functionality of the base unit 750 (FIGS. 7A-7B)and/or the housing 815 (FIGS. 8A-8D). In some embodiments, the dispenserdevice is configured to charge the dental care device 10 (e.g., viainductive charging, an electrical port (e.g., a USB port), or an ACadapter) while the dental care device is stored. In some embodiments,the dispenser device is configured to clean and/or disinfect dental caredevice 10 (e.g., using ultraviolet light and/or a cleaning solution).

FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating a method 2200 for fabricating arepresentative teeth cleaning device in accordance with someembodiments. A structure plate (e.g., structure plate 1708) having anattachment tab (e.g., connector 1712) configured to attach to a controlcomponent (e.g., an external drive mechanism) is provided (2202). Insome embodiments, the structure plate is composed of (2204) a plasticmaterial. In some embodiments, the plate is injection molded out of aplastic material that is more ridged than the elastomer. In someembodiments, the structure plate is selected (2206) from a set ofpre-made structure plates based on dental details of a particular user.In some embodiments, the set of pre-made structure plates (e.g., 5 or 10plates) are configured to cover a wide range of jaw sizes and shapes(e.g., from children to adults). In some embodiments, the dental detailsof the particular user include information regarding locations andshapes of the particular user's teeth (e.g., obtained via 3-D scanningthe user's mouth). In some embodiments, the structure plate has ageneral U-shape or Y-shape. In some embodiments, the structure plate hasa jaw-shape.

A mold is provided (2208). In some embodiments, the mold is selected(2210) from a set of pre-made molds based on the dental details of theparticular user. In some embodiments, the mold is selected based on theprovided structure plate (e.g., based on a size or shape of thestructure plate). In some embodiments, the mold comprises (2212) aplurality of dental mold plates (e.g., plates 1704, FIG. 17).

Upper and lower mold inserts customized in accordance with the dentaldetails of the particular user (e.g., mold inserts 1706) are provided(2214). In some embodiments, the mold inserts are fabricating via a 3-Dprinting process. In some embodiments, multiple customized dental caredevices are fabricating for a particular user using the same moldinserts. In some embodiments, the mold inserts are fabricated (2216)based on the dental details of the particular user, e.g., the geometryof the user's teeth and jaw, the dental health of the user's teeth andgums, and dental history of the user. In some embodiments, the moldinserts comprise (2218) a plurality of apertures (e.g., apertures 1720)configured to enable formation of (custom) cleaning tips on a teethcleaning device via the molding process.

The structure plate is placed (2220) into the mold between the upper andlower mold inserts. An elastomer is injected (e.g., pressure injected orvacuum injected) into the mold to form an intermediary molded device(2222). The intermediary molded device is removed (2224) from the mold.The upper and lower mold inserts are removed (2226) from the teethcleaning device to form the teeth cleaning device (e.g., the mouthpieceassembly 1902, FIG. 19A) comprising upper and lower cleaning portionswith the structure plate positioned there between. In some embodiments,the upper and lower cleaning portions comprise a single continuouselastomer coating (e.g., coating 1904). For example, an elastomercoating configured to, without any seams, surround the arms of thesupport plate and extend around surfaces of the user's teeth duringuser.

In some embodiments, the upper and lower cleaning portions include aplurality of cleaning tips (e.g., cleaning tips 80) formed fromapertures (also sometimes called cavities herein) in the upper and lowermold inserts. In some embodiments, the apertures are configured inaccordance with the user's dental information.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating a method 2300 for operating arepresentative dental care device in accordance with some embodiments. Aserver system (e.g., server system 910) transmits (2302) drive profileinformation (e.g., drive profile information 1232) to a dental caredevice (e.g., dental care device 10 or dental care device 100). In someembodiments, the server system transmits the information via the networkinterface(s) 1204 in conjunction with the network communication module1212. In some embodiments, the drive profile information is provided bya dental health professional. In some embodiments, the drive profileinformation is generated at the server system based on dental details ofa user of the dental care device. In some embodiments, the drive profileinformation includes frequency and timing information for operating thedental care device to clean the user's teeth. In some embodiments, thedrive profile information includes voltage and/or current informationfor operating a drive assembly 1016 of the dental care device (e.g., toproduce desired frequencies and timings).

The dental care device receives (2304) the drive profile informationfrom the server system. In some embodiments, the dental care devicereceives the information via the communication interface(s) 1026operating in conjunction with the communication module 1034. In someembodiments, the dental care device stores the drive profile informationin memory 1030. In some embodiments, the dental care device utilizes thedrive profile information to update one or more drive profiles 1048stored in memory 1030.

The dental care device receives (2306) an activation command from theuser. In some embodiments, the activation command comprises a voicecommand or selection of an activation affordance (e.g., a physicalbutton) on the dental care device. In some embodiments, the activationcommand comprises an implicit activation command (e.g., the dental caredevice determines that it is inserted into the user's mouth).

The dental care device operates (2308) in accordance with the driveprofile information to clean the user's teeth. In some embodiments, thedental care device vibrates at a plurality of sonic and/or ultrasonicfrequencies (e.g., in accordance with a drive profile 1048).

The dental care device collects (2310) operation and/or user data. Insome embodiments, the operation data includes information regarding howoften the user operates the dental care device. In some embodiments, theoperation data includes information obtained from one or more sensors ofthe dental care device (e.g., one or more breath analyzers). In someembodiments, the user data includes one or more user settings and/orpreferences. In some embodiments, the user data includes dentalinformation supplied by the user to the dental care device. In someembodiments, the dental care device modifies one or more drive profilesof the user based on the collected information.

The dental care device transmits (2312) the collected data to the serversystem. In some embodiments, the dental care device transmits thecollected data via the communication interface(s) 1026 operating inconjunction with the communication module 1034. The server systemreceives (2314) the collected data from the dental care device. In someembodiments, the server system receives the collected data via thenetwork interface(s) 1204 in conjunction with the network communicationmodule 1212.

The server system modifies (2316) a drive profile (or drive profileinformation) for the user based on the collected data. In someembodiments, the server system modifies one or more frequency,amplitude, timing, voltage, or current parameters of the drive profilebased on the collected data. In some embodiments, the server systemrequests updated dental information from the user (or a dental careprovider of the user) based on the collected data. For example, thecollected data indicates that the user has recently experienced pain ordiscomfort when using the dental care device, thereby indicating thatthe user's dental health or situation has changed. Based on thisindication, the server system requests updated dental information to sothat it can adjust the drive profile (or order a new dental care devicemouthpiece) based on the updated information. In some embodiments, theserver system requests an updated mouthpiece for the dental care devicebased on the collected information.

The server system transmits (2318) the modified drive profileinformation (e.g., drive profile information 1232) to the dental caredevice. In some embodiments, the server system transmits the modifiedinformation via the network interface(s) 1204 in conjunction with thenetwork communication module 1212. The dental care device receives(2320) the modified drive profile information from the server system. Insome embodiments, the dental care device receives the information viathe communication interface(s) 1026 operating in conjunction with thecommunication module 1034.

In some embodiments, the dental care device stores the modified driveprofile information in memory 1030 (e.g., in place of, or in additionto, the previously received drive profile information). In someembodiments, the dental care device utilizes the modified drive profileinformation to update one or more drive profiles 1048 stored in memory1030.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating a method 2400 for operating arepresentative dispenser device in accordance with some embodiments. Aserver system (e.g., server system 910) transmits (2402) dispensingprofile information to a dispenser device (e.g., oral care agentdispenser device 904). In some embodiments, the server system transmitsthe information via the network interface(s) 1204 in conjunction withthe network communication module 1212. In some embodiments, thedispensing profile information is provided by a dental healthprofessional. In some embodiments, the dispensing profile information isgenerated at the server system based on dental details, and optionallypreferences, of a user of the dispenser device (e.g., dental detailsprovided by the user and/or one or more dental health professionals). Insome embodiments, the drive profile information includes ingredient andquantity information for combining and dispensing oral care agentingredients. In some embodiments, the dispensing profile informationincludes voltage and/or current information for operating a driveassembly 1116 of the dispenser device (e.g., to produce the desiredamount of each oral care agent ingredient).

The dispenser device receives (2404) the dispensing profile information.In some embodiments, the dispenser device receives the information viathe communication interface(s) 1126 operating in conjunction with thecommunication module 1134.

The dispenser device determines (2406) that a dental care device (e.g.,dental care device 10 or dental care device 100) is in position toreceive oral care agent from the dispenser device. In some embodiments,the dispenser device determines that the dental care device is inposition based on one or more sensors 1104 of the dispenser device. Insome embodiments, the dispenser device determines that the dental caredevice is in position based on one or more inputs to the userinterface(s) 1106. In some embodiments, the dispenser device is notifiedby the dental care device that it is in position to receive dispensedoral care agent.

The dental care device optionally transmits (2410) a device identifierto the dispenser device. In some embodiments, the device identifier istransmitted via a barcode on the dental care device and a barcodescanner on the dispenser device. In some embodiments, the deviceidentifier is transmitted via NFC protocol. In some embodiments, thedevice identifier is transmitted via a radio frequency identity (RFID)protocol. In some embodiments, the user of the dental care devicesubmits an identifier to the dispenser device (e.g., via voice input, apasscode entered via the user interface(s) 1106, or the like).

The dispenser device receives the device (or user) identifier andidentifies (2412) the dispensing profile based on the identifier. Insome embodiments, the dispenser device stores a plurality of dispensingprofiles (e.g., dispensing profiles 1148) and each dispensing profilecorresponds to a unique identifier. In some embodiments, the dispenserdevice matches the identifier with an identifier in the dispensingprofile. In some embodiments, the dispenser device stores multipledispensing profiles for a single user and selects one of the multipledispensing profiles based on additional information (e.g., a time ofday, day of the week, a user selection, a user preference, dentalinformation of the user, a type of the dental care device provided toreceive the oral care agent, and the like).

The dispenser device dispenses (2414) oral care agent ingredients inaccordance with the identified dispensing profile. In some embodiments,the dispensing profiles identifies a plurality of oral care agentingredients to be dispensed and a corresponding amount to be dispensedfor each oral care agent ingredient. In some embodiments, the dispenserdevice mixes the oral care agent ingredients prior to dispensing. Insome embodiments, the dispenser device determines a shape of the dentalcare device (e.g., based on the identifier) and dispenses theingredients in a shape corresponding to the shape of the dental caredevice.

The dispenser device collects (2418) operation and/or user data. In someembodiments, the operation data includes information regarding how oftenthe user operates the dispenser device (and/or which dental care devicethe user is using with the dispenser device). In some embodiments, theoperation data includes information obtained from one or more sensors ofthe dispenser device (e.g., sensors to determine amounts of ingredientsremaining). In some embodiments, the user data includes one or more usersettings and/or preferences. In some embodiments, the user data includesdental information supplied by the user to the dispenser device. In someembodiments, the dispenser device modifies one or more dispensingprofiles of the user based on the collected information.

The dispenser device transmits (2420) the collected data to the serversystem. In some embodiments, the dispenser device transmits thecollected data via the communication interface(s) 1126 operating inconjunction with the communication module 1134. The server systemreceives (2422) the collected data from the dispenser device. In someembodiments, the server system receives the collected data via thenetwork interface(s) 1204 in conjunction with the network communicationmodule 1212.

The server system updates (2424) a dispensing profile (or dispensingprofile information) for the user based on the collected data. In someembodiments, the server system modifies one or more ingredients,amounts, voltage, or current parameters of the dispensing profile basedon the collected data. In some embodiments, the server system requestsupdated dental information from the user (or a dental care provider ofthe user) based on the collected data. For example, the collected dataindicates that the user has recently experienced yellowing of the teeth,thereby indicating that the user's dental health or situation haschanged. Based on this indication, the server system requests updateddental information to so that it can adjust the dispensing profile,order new oral care agent ingredients, and/or order a new dental caredevice mouthpiece based on the updated information. In some embodiments,the server system requests an updated mouthpiece for the dental caredevice based on the collected information.

In some embodiments, the server system transmits the updated dispensingprofile information to the dispenser device. In some embodiments, theserver system transmits the modified information via the networkinterface(s) 1204 in conjunction with the network communication module1212. The dispenser device receives the modified dispensing profileinformation from the server system. In some embodiments, the dispenserdevice receives the information via the communication interface(s) 1126operating in conjunction with the communication module 1134.

In some embodiments, the dispenser device stores the modified dispensingprofile information in memory 1130 (e.g., in place of, or in additionto, the previously received dispensing profile information). In someembodiments, the dispenser device utilizes the modified dispensingprofile information to update one or more dispensing profiles 1148stored in memory 1130.

Although some of various drawings illustrate a number of logical stagesin a particular order, stages that are not order dependent may bereordered and other stages may be combined or broken out. While somereordering or other groupings are specifically mentioned, others will beobvious to those of ordinary skill in the art, so the ordering andgroupings presented herein are not an exhaustive list of alternatives.Moreover, it should be recognized that the stages could be implementedin hardware, firmware, software or any combination thereof.

It will also be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc.are, in some instances, used herein to describe various elements, theseelements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only usedto distinguish one element from another. For example, a first currentcould be termed a second current, and, similarly, a second current couldbe termed a first current, without departing from the scope of thevarious described embodiments. The first current and the second currentare both currents, but they are not the same condition unless explicitlystated as such.

The terminology used in the description of the various describedembodiments herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used in thedescription of the various described embodiments and the appendedclaims, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to includethe plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise. It will also be understood that the term “and/or” as usedherein refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations ofone or more of the associated listed items. It will be furtherunderstood that the terms “includes,” “including,” “comprises,” and/or“comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence ofstated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/orcomponents, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or moreother features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components,and/or groups thereof.

As used herein, the term “if” is, optionally, construed to mean “when”or “upon” or “in response to determining” or “in response to detecting”or “in accordance with a determination that,” depending on the context.Similarly, the phrase “if it is determined” or “if [a stated conditionor event] is detected” is, optionally, construed to mean “upondetermining” or “in response to determining” or “upon detecting [thestated condition or event]” or “in response to detecting [the statedcondition or event]” or “in accordance with a determination that [astated condition or event] is detected,” depending on the context.

The foregoing description, for purpose of explanation, has beendescribed with reference to specific embodiments. However, theillustrative discussions above are not intended to be exhaustive or tolimit the scope of the claims to the precise forms disclosed. Manymodifications and variations are possible in view of the aboveteachings. The embodiments were chosen in order to best explain theprinciples underlying the claims and their practical applications, tothereby enable others skilled in the art to best use the embodimentswith various modifications as are suited to the particular usescontemplated.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of fabricating a teeth cleaning devicecustomized to a particular user, comprising: providing a support platehaving an attachment tab configured to attach to an external drivemechanism; providing a mold; obtaining an electronic 3D dental model ofthe inside of a particular user's mouth; generating an upper mold insertcustomized in accordance with upper teeth and gums based on theelectronic 3D dental model of the particular user; generating a lowermold insert customized in accordance with lower teeth and gums based onthe electronic 3D dental model of the particular user, where the uppermold insert is different than the lower mold insert; placing into themold the support plate between the upper and lower mold inserts;injecting an elastomer into the mold to form an intermediary moldeddevice; removing the intermediary molded device from the mold; andremoving the upper and lower mold inserts from the intermediary moldeddevice to expose the teeth cleaning device comprising upper and lowercleaning portions with the support plate positioned there between. 2.The method of claim 1, wherein the support plate is molded out of aplastic material that is more rigid than the upper and lower cleaningportions.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the upper and lower moldinserts are fabricated via a 3-D printing process.
 4. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the dental details of the particular user compriseinformation regarding locations and shapes of the particular user'steeth.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the upper and lower cleaningportions include a plurality of cleaning tips formed from apertures inthe upper and lower mold inserts.
 6. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising selecting the mold from a set of molds based on a size of ajaw of the particular user.
 7. The method of claim 5, wherein the dentaldetails of the particular user are used to determine locations of theapertures in the upper and lower mold inserts.
 8. The method of claim 7,wherein the dental details of the particular user comprise informationregarding locations and shapes of the particular user's teeth.
 9. Themethod of claim 5, wherein the plurality of cleaning tips have lengthsranging from 0.5 mm to 6.0 mm.
 10. The method of claim 5, wherein: eachof the plurality of cleaning tips has a first end and a second end; anda width of each of the plurality of cleaning tip decreases from thefirst end to the second end.
 11. The method of claim 1, whereinproviding the upper and lower mold inserts customized in accordance withdental details of the particular user comprises printing the upper andlower mold inserts in accordance with dental details of the particularuser.
 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the elastomer is composed ofbiocompatible silicone.
 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the upper andlower cleaning portions enclose the support plate.
 14. The method ofclaim 1, wherein: the upper and lower mold inserts include one or moreapertures; and the method further comprises fixing the upper and lowermold inserts to the mold by the one or more apertures.
 15. The method ofclaim 1, wherein: the lower mold insert includes a first plurality ofapertures with a first arrangement; and the upper mold insert includes asecond plurality of apertures with a second arrangement that differsfrom the first arrangement of the first plurality of apertures.
 16. Amethod of fabricating a teeth cleaning device customized to a particularuser, comprising: 3-D printing upper and lower mold inserts inaccordance with dental details of the particular user; placing the upperand lower mold inserts in a mold; placing a support plate, the uppermold insert, and the lower mold insert in a mold such that the supportplate is positioned between the upper and lower mold inserts; injectinga polymer into the mold to form a molded device; and removing the upperand lower mold inserts from the molded device to expose the teethcleaning device comprising upper and lower cleaning portions with thesupport plate positioned there between.
 17. The method of claim 16,wherein: the lower mold insert includes a first plurality of apertureswith a first arrangement; and the upper mold insert includes a secondplurality of apertures with a second arrangement that differs from thefirst arrangement of the first plurality of apertures.
 18. The method ofclaim 17, wherein: the lower cleaning portion includes a first pluralityof cleaning tips formed from the first plurality of apertures of thelower mold insert; and the upper cleaning portion includes a secondplurality of cleaning tips formed from the second plurality of aperturesof the upper mold insert.
 19. The method of claim 16, wherein thesupport plate includes an attachment tab configured to attach to anexternal drive mechanism.